Adhesions: Scar tissue can become restrictive and painful if it’s not addressed early. While most people think of scars as marks on the skin, many injuries create internal scar tissue within muscles, ligaments and tendons. This internal scarring ( fibrosis or adhesions) can limit movement, cause discomfort and increase the risk of re-injury. In this blog, you can find the answers to the most common inquires patients have about this unwanted scar tissue.

What Is Scar Tissue?

When soft tissues such as muscles, tendons or ligaments are injured, the body begins a natural healing process. Instead of regenerating identical new tissue, the body produces collagen fibres to repair the damaged area.

What are Ahdesions?

Adhesions or fibrosis are the resul of overproduction of collagen, creating unwanted inner scar tissues. Collagen is essential—its Greek root means “glue-producer”—but:

• The fibres are laid down quickly and irregularly, forming a tougher, less flexible structure than the original tissue.
• This disorganised collagen can accumulate into dense scar tissue.
• Without treatment, these fibres can bind to nearby muscles, nerves or fascia, creating adhesions, stiffness and pain.
• Over time, untreated scar tissue may reduce mobility, contribute to inflammation and disrupt normal biomechanics.

Why Treat Scar Tissue Early?

During the early healing stage, collagen fibres are still remodelling. This makes them more responsive to treatment aimed at:

• Improving alignment of fibres
• Increasing flexibility
• Preventing long-term adhesions
• Reducing the risk of chronic pain or reinjury

Treating scar tissue early is important because once scar tissue becomes mature and rigid, treatment takes longer and may be less effective; in other words, it´s like allowing a paintbrush to dry stiff rather than cleaning it immediately.

Evidence-Based Treatments for Scar Tissue

1. Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic ultrasound part of the therapy  since the 1940s and remains a common clinical tool. It uses sound waves (typically 0.8–1 MHz) to produce deep tissue vibration.

Scientific studies show ultrasound can help by:

• Increasing local blood flow
• Improving tissue oxygenation
• Reducing muscle tightness
• Supporting early collagen remodelling

Although ultrasound alone may not fully break down mature scar tissue, it can be very beneficial in the initial healing phases and enhances the effect of manual therapies.

2. Manual techniques

Manual lymphatic drainage, deep tissue massage, myofascial release and other manual therapies are widely used to treat adhesions. Research indicates that these techniques can:

• Break down or reduce scar tissue adhesions
• Improve range of movement
• Decrease nerve compression or irritation
• Reduce pain
• Reduce stress and anxiety due to the condition
• Support proper collagen alignment for long-term healing

A final word

• Scar tissue treatments work by targeting deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, these techniques help restore flexibility and prevent the formation of rigid fibrotic tissues (adhesions, hard lumps, etc.).
• If you also have visible skin scarring, an after surgery specialist can provide an holistic treatments based on your specific needs.
• Maintaining Results: Warm-Up, keep mobing and strecht, your therapist will teach you how to do it.
• Once scar tissue has been treated, structured aftercare is essential. Regular mobility work, progressive stretching and proper warm-ups help maintain tissue flexibility and reduce the risk of future injury.

Need Support With Scar Tissue Treatment?

We’re always here to help. If you have questions or want to know which treatments  is right for your condition, contact us. You can find us in Islington and Mill Hill Broadway. If you like this blog, please share!
If you found this blog helpful, please share it!

We are always glad to help.

References:

https://d-nb.info/1197702474/34

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24987208/

Visit our knowledge bank for more info

The post Ahdesions: Why it is Important to Deal with Internal Scar Tissue appeared first on Perea Clinic.

After cosmetic surgery, or any type of surgery, patients often wonder if their wound is healing properly. Whether you’re resting at home or already back to daily activities, understanding the wound healing process and the benefits of proper post-surgical care can improve your recovery and peace of mind.

The 4 Scientifically Proven Stages of Wound Healing

1.Hemostasis (The body stop´s bleeding)

• • This is the body’s immediate response to injury, occurring within minutes.
  • Blood vessels constrict and produce clots to prevent excessive blood loss.
  • White blood cells (Macrophages) flood the area to protect against infection.
  • The clot forms a scab, sealing the wound to begin healing.

2. Inflammation

• • • Typically lasts up to 6 days post-surgery.
    • Signs include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and clear fluid discharge.
    • Macrophages (white blood cells) clean the wound and prevent infection.
    • Normal blood flow returns to the area, essential for healing.
    • If symptoms worsen, such as pus or bad odor, consult your doctor immediately.

3.Rebuilding (Proliferative phase)

• • • The body starts constructing new tissue to replace damaged skin.
    • Oxygen-rich red blood cells deliver nutrients to form new tissues.
    • Surrounding cells produce collagen, creating a scar.
    • Sharp or shooting pains may occur as nerves regenerate, this is a normal sign of healing.
    • Pain intensity will gradually decrease over time.

4.Maturation (strengthening and remodeling)

• • • • The scar initially appears red, raised, and fresh.
      • Over weeks to months, the scar flattens and fades to resemble surrounding skin.
      • Itching or tightness indicates ongoing tissue remodeling.
      • The wound gains strength as collagen reorganizes and matures.

Key factors that can affect wound healing

• Poor blood supply, which delays healing, may result from:
  • Obesity
  • Hypertension
  • Vascular diseases (e.g., venous insufficiency)
  • Diabetes
  • Genetic conditions like keloids or fibrosis
• Other slowing factors include:
  • Low oxygen levels
  • Infection
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Presence of foreign bodies
  • Age-related slower cellular regeneration
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Certain medications (e.g., steroids, chemotherapy)
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Smoking
  • Immunocompromised states (e.g., cancer, AIDS)
  • Poor nutrition

Warning Signs of Infection After Surgery

Immediately see your surgeon or healthcare provider if you notice:

• Fever
• Delayed wound healing
• Increasing redness, pain, or swelling
• Pus or foul odor from the wound
• Persistent tenderness or warmth near the incision

Why Post-surgery treatment matters

Professional post-surgical therapy improves outcomes by:

• Enhancing tissue repair and regeneration
• Accelerating wound healing timelines
• Preventing infections and complications like seromas and fibrosis
• Reducing post-operative pain and discomfort
• Lowering patient stress and supporting emotional wellbeing

Choosing the right post-surgery therapist

• Seek certified therapists experienced in post-operative care.
• Skilled therapists use personalsed treatment plans.
• Treatments may include manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and specialiSed equipment tailored to your healing stage.
• Proper timing and techniques are crucial to maximize recovery and avoid setbacks.

A final word

It is pivotal that you know that each person and procedure is different, so recovery time may vary from patient to patient. On the other hand, proper, tailored and timily after surgery care plus self awareness improve and speed up your recovery journy.

If you have questions or would like to book your post-surgery treatment, contact us today! We’re always glad to help. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington.  If you found this blog useful, please share it with others who may be starting their recovery journey.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2903966/#:~:text=The%20wound%2Dhealing%20process%20consists,Gosain%20and%20DiPietro%2C%202004).

https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/surgical-incision-healing

https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/stages-of-wound-healing#stages-of-wound-healing

The post After cosmetic surgery treatment: How to know if your wound is healing properly appeared first on Perea Clinic.

Every aesthetic surgery comes with a recovery period, often called the post-operative (post-op) phase. Your surgeon performs the procedure, but the recovery is a shared responsibility between you, your surgical team, and a qualified post-operative care specialist. Good preparation and proper aftercare can dramatically improve your results, reduce complications, and support long-lasting outcomes. This guide explains what to expect before and after aesthetic surgery, the science behind recovery, and why professional post-surgery treatments, especially Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), are essential.

What to Expect Before Aesthetic Surgery

To achieve a smooth recovery and optimal results, your surgeon will prepare you with several essential pre-operative steps. These ensure your safety, reduce surgical risks, and support healthy healing.

Common Pre-Surgery Requirements

Your surgeon will typically ask you to:

• Complete medical tests to assess general health and detect any risk factors.
• Meet the anaesthesiologist to determine the safest anaesthesia for your procedure.
• Obtain clearance from your GP if you have conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or other chronic illnesses.
• Stop smoking at least 3–4 weeks before surgery, as nicotine severely affects circulation and slows healing.
• Adopt a pre-surgery nutrition plan, usually focused on reducing inflammation, increasing protein intake, and stabilising blood sugar.

Emotional and Psychological Preparation

Aesthetic surgery changes your appearance, which can temporarily affect:

• Self-image
• Emotional stability
• Confidence
• Relationships

It is normal to experience mood fluctuations during recovery. Understanding this ahead and proper acompanament (therapist) helps you navigate the emotional side of healing with confidence.

Why You Need Post-Surgery Treatments

Post-operative treatments support your body through the natural phases of healing. After surgery, the body enters an inflammatory phase, which includes swelling, fluid retention, bruising, and sometimes discomfort.

A proper post-operative treatment plan helps you:

• Reduce inflammation
• Manage drains or cannulas safely
• Prevent complications (seromas, fibrosis, delayed healing)
• Speed up tissue repair
• Improve your final aesthetic outcome

A qualified post-op specialist ensures techniques are performed safely, with correct hygiene and without damaging healing tissues.

Benefits of Professional Post-Surgery Treatment

Evidence-based post-op care provides many benefits, including:

• Reduced inflammation and swelling
• Improved elimination of medications, anaesthetic fluids, and surgical byproducts
• Less water retention
• Reduced pain and bruising
• Faster tissue repair
• Decreased skin sensitivity
• Improved skin firmness and retraction
• Healthier overall skin condition
• Better regeneration of damaged capillaries and lymphatic vessels
• Enhanced scar healing
• Improved muscle and skin tone
• Better venous and lymphatic return

The Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is one of the most important components of post-op care. It usually begins 24 hours to 7 days after surgery, depending on your surgeon’s instructions.

MLD helps:

• Activate and stimulate the lymphatic system
• Safely drain excess fluids and toxins
• Support scar tissue remodelling
• Prevent seromas and excessive fibrosis
• Reduce pain and stiffness

Research from 2023–2024 supports early MLD as an effective method for reducing post-operative swelling, improving comfort, and improving aesthetic results across procedures such as liposuction and abdominoplasty.

How Post-Operative Treatment Works: The Three Phases of Recovery

Healing occurs in predictable stages, but each patient’s pace is unique. Your treatment plan is customised according to your surgery type, body, selfcare and progress.

Phase 1: Inflammation & Fluid Retention (Days 1–14)

Your body responds to surgery by increasing blood flow to the area. This causes:

• Swelling
• Fluid accumulation
• Bruising
• Warmth or tenderness

At this stage, the goal is to decrease inflammation and drain excess fluid safely.

MLD in Phase 1

MLD uses gentle, directional movements to guide fluid toward nearby lymph nodes. It should never be painful.
Early MLD helps prevent:

• Seromas
• Excessive swelling
• Uncontrolled fibrosis

Fluid can appear not only at the surgical site but also in the hands, feet, or lower body due to gravitational shifts, MLD supports drainage everywhere.

Phase 2: Tissue Repair & Early Fibrosis (Weeks 2–6)

Your body begins producing fibroblasts, cells responsible for forming new connective tissue. This is normal healing.

However, if too many fibroblasts accumulate, tissues can feel:

• Hard
• Lumpy
• Tight

This is acute fibrosis, and treating it early prevents it from becoming chronic.

Focus of Treatment in Phase 2

• Reducing early fibrosis
• Helping the skin adhere smoothly to underlying tissues
• Maintaining good lymphatic flow

MLD is often combined with gentle techniques to soften tissue and prevent long-term irregularities.

Phase 3: Maturation, Body Contouring & Scar Remodelling (Weeks 6–12+)

Inflammation decreases and tissues become more stable. Treatments shift toward:

• Softening fibrosis
• Improving contour and shape
• Supporting scar healing

Techniques used in Phase 3 may include:

• MLD
• Ultrasound
• Radiofrequency
• Vacuum therapy (if appropriate)
• Scar tissue mobilisation
• Gentle massage

Not all machines are suitable for every body type. A professional will choose what is safe and effective based on your skin type, healing response, and surgical procedure.

Important:

MLD or machine-based treatments should never be painful. If you feel discomfort, your therapist should adjust the settings or technique immediately.

Additional Benefits of MLD + Devices

When used correctly, advanced devices can help:

• Reduce fibrosis
• Accelerate healing
• Minimise pain and swelling
• Improve metabolism in treated areas
• Reduce seroma risk
• Prevent capsular contracture (in implant surgeries)
• Improve scar appearance
• Smooth skin texture

Final Word: Recovery Is Personal

Healing is not linear, and every body responds differently. Your post-operative plan should be tailored session by session. Patience is essential.

Remember:

• Instagram and other social media “before and after” pictures don’t show the full healing journey.
• You are responsible for your aftercare and it requires budgeting for proper post-operative support.
• On average, patients need a minimum of 5 post-op sessions, but many require more depending on the procedure and their healing response.
• Good aftercare is not a luxury—it is a crucial part of your surgical success.

If you have questions or would like to book your post-surgery treatment, contact us today! We’re always glad to help. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington.  If you found this blog useful, please share it with others who may be starting their recovery journey.

References:

 https://www.topdoctors.com.co/articulosmedicos/recomendaciones-para-antes-de-realizarse-una-cirugia-estetica 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24987208/

https://d-nb.info/1197702474/34

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24987208/

The post Cosmetic post-op treatment: What to expect before and after aesthetic surgery appeared first on Perea Clinic.

Cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries have become increasingly common in the UK over the past decade. While these procedures can enhance confidence and improve physical appearance, they also come with postoperative risks—one of the most frequent being seroma formation. Understanding what seromas are, why they occur, and how to prevent and manage them can significantly improve your recovery experience.

What Is a Seroma?

A seroma is a  pocket of fluid that can build up under the skin after surgery or an injury. It happens when tiny lymph vessels are disturbed during the procedure, causing clear fluid (called lymph) to collect in the area instead of draining naturally.

Sometimes the fluid isn’t completely clear, it may be mixed with a little blood or waste from the healing tissues, which can make it look yellow, pink, or even slightly red.

Seromas usually appear a week or two after surgery, often once any drainage tubes have been removed. They can feel like a soft or firm lump under the skin. Small seromas often go away on their own as the body reabsorbs the fluid, but larger ones may need to be checked or drained to prevent infection or slow healing.

Why Do Seromas Occur? 

Seromas typically develop after extensive surgical procedures involving tissue removal, dissection, or disruption of lymphatic channels. Cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries with a higher risk include:

• Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
  
• Liposuction or Body Contouring Procedures
  
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
  
• Breast Augmentation or Reduction
  
• Mastectomy or Breast Reconstruction
  

Risk factors include:

• obesity, 
• large surgical areas, 
• inadequate compression,
• early vigorous movement after surgery.
• flights 

How to Prevent Seromas

Preventing seromas begins in the operating room and continues throughout your recovery:

1. Surgical Drains:
   Your surgeon may place small drainage tubes near the incision site to prevent fluid buildup. These are typically kept in place for several days post-surgery.
   
   
2. Compression Garments:
   Wearing a properly fitted compression garment helps minimize space where fluid can accumulate and supports lymphatic return.
   
   
3. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD):
   Early initiation of Manual Lymphatic Drainage, performed by a certified therapist who treats you better, can greatly assist in preventing seroma formation. MLD uses gentle, rhythmic movements to stimulate lymph flow, reduce swelling, and support tissue healing.
   
   Recent evidence (2023–2024) supports MLD as an effective adjunct therapy in postoperative recovery, particularly for patients undergoing abdominoplasty and liposuction (Leduc et al., J Clin Med, 2023).
   
   
4. Avoiding Strain:
   Follow your surgeon’s activity recommendations. Overexertion can increase fluid production and delay healing.

Treating Seromas Naturally and Medically

Small seromas often resolve spontaneously within a few weeks as the body reabsorbs the fluid. To aid natural healing:

• Continue MLD sessions as advised by your therapist.
  
• Maintain adequate hydration and nutrition, as both support tissue repair and lymphatic health.
  
• Use compression garments as directed.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may need to aspirate (drain) the seroma using a sterile needle. Persistent or encapsulated seromas may require minor surgical removal.

Seromas after surgery:When to Seek Medical Help?

While most seromas are benign, medical evaluation is essential if you experience any signs of infection or complications. Contact your surgeon immediately if:

• You develop a fever or feel unwell.
  
• The area becomes red, warm, painful, or tender.
  
• Fluid accumulation increases rather than decreases.
  
• The seroma does not improve after several weeks.
  
• You notice hardening or pressure around the surgical area.
  

If infection occurs, the seroma may evolve into an abscess, requiring medical drainage and antibiotics.

A final word

Seromas are a common but manageable side effect of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. With proper surgical care, early manual lymphatic drainage, and vigilant postoperative management, the risk and impact of seromas can be significantly reduced. Always consult your surgeon and a certified lymphatic drainage therapist to ensure your recovery is safe and effective.

If you have questions or would like to book your post-surgery MLD session, contact us today! We’re always happy to help. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington.  If you found this article useful, please share it with others who may be starting their recovery journey.

References:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4347361/

Fibrosis After Cosmetic Surgery:Why MLD Isn’t Enough

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage MLD

The post Seromas after surgery: Prevention and Treatment appeared first on Perea Clinic.

Recovery after cosmetic surgery involves carefully managing how the body forms and organises new tissue. Fibrosis after cosmetic surgery needs to be guided. With over 20 years of experience in lymphatic drainage and 15 years in post-operative recovery for cosmetic surgery, I’ve seen how often patients are told that manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) alone is enough. In reality, MLD is only one part of a carefully guided journey.

Fibrosis is not something to prevent, it’s a vital part of healing that must be directed correctly. Properly guiding fibrosis after cosmetic surgery helps patients achieve smooth, natural results.
This article explains why MLD is essential in the early stages, why it isn’t enough on its own after the first few days, and how guided post-operative care leads to smoother, healthier, and more natural results.

Understanding Fibrosis After Cosmetic Surgery

Fibrosis is a normal and necessary biological response to tissue injury. It represents the body’s effort to rebuild and strengthen the surgical area through the production of collagen. Without this process, proper healing would not occur.

However, when collagen production becomes excessive or disorganised, fibrosis can result in firm, thick, or uneven tissue. This can affect comfort, function, and the final aesthetic result.

Our goal in post-surgical care is therefore not to prevent fibrosis, but to guide it, encouraging healthy, flexible tissue formation and proper collagen alignment through each stage of healing.

When properly managed, fibrosis supports smooth, even recovery. When neglected, it can lead to tightness, lumps, or visible irregularities that alter the final outcome.

The Phases of Healing, and the Role of Lymphatic Drainage

1. Inflammatory Phase (0–5 days post-op)

Goal: Reduce swelling and support lymphatic circulation.

During the first few days after surgery, the lymphatic system is under significant strain. Inflammation and fluid accumulation are normal responses to trauma, but they can cause discomfort and delay healing if unmanaged.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is highly effective at this stage. It helps drain excess interstitial fluid, reduce swelling, and relieve discomfort. The technique encourages proper circulation and supports the body’s natural repair mechanisms.

At this stage, MLD alone is often sufficient, as the primary goal is controlling inflammation and promoting fluid absorption.

2. Proliferative Phase (3–21 days post-op)

Goal: Build new tissue and promote balanced collagen formation.

As inflammation begins to settle, the body shifts into rebuilding mode. Fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen, begin constructing new tissue to repair the surgical area. This is the beginning of fibrosis formation, which, when properly guided, leads to healthy healing.During this phase, managing fibrosis after cosmetic surgery becomes critical for balanced tissue repair.

However, this is also the phase where many post-surgical protocols fall short. Continuing with MLD alone does not address the structural changes happening within the tissue. The new collagen can become dense, uneven, and adherent if not supported through the right techniques.

From my experience as a lymphoedema therapist, once tissue becomes fibrotic, fluid drainage becomes restricted. The hardened tissue limits lymphatic movement, which means before we can drain effectively, we first need to soften and mobilise the fibrotic tissue.

In post-surgical care, this same principle applies. Once the patient enters this phase, treatment must evolve to include:

• Myofascial release and fascia stretching to improve tissue elasticity
• Therapeutic ultrasound, deep oscillation  to soften dense or adherent areas
• Gentle mobilisation and guided movement to support circulation and prevent stiffness

These interventions work alongside MLD to promote proper collagen organisation and prevent long-term irregularities. 

3. Remodelling (Maturation) Phase (3 weeks onward)

Goal: Strengthen, align, and refine new tissue.

During the final stage of healing, collagen fibres mature and reorganise. The tissue gains strength and stability, and the focus shifts toward refining texture, contour, and flexibility.

MLD continues to play a valuable role, but now it must be integrated with advanced manual and mechanical therapies to encourage optimal tissue alignment. At this point, care becomes more individualised, tailored to how each patient’s tissue responds and remodels.

Why MLD Alone Is Not Enough to Manage Fibrosis After Cosmetic Surgery

MLD is a cornerstone of post-surgical care, but it was never designed to address every stage of tissue healing. Its primary role is to manage lymphatic flow and inflammation. Once fibrosis begins to develop, the approach must broaden to include tissue manipulation, fascia therapy, and targeted movement techniques.

Relying solely on MLD beyond the initial stage risks missing the crucial opportunity to guide collagen formation. A structured, multi-modal treatment plan ensures that the healing tissue remains soft, mobile, and balanced.

The best outcomes come from understanding the body’s natural sequence of repair, and adjusting our techniques as that process evolves.

Time to Evolve Post-Operative Care

For many years, post-surgical protocols in the UK have relied on MLD alone, often delivered as a standard series of sessions regardless of the patient’s stage of healing.
But healing is dynamic, not static. Each phase has distinct physiological goals, and treatment must adapt accordingly.

It’s time for post-operative care to move beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Fibrosis is not something to be feared or prevented, it’s something to be guided and managed intelligently.

By combining lymphatic drainage with targeted tissue therapies, compression management, and patient education, we can help the body remodel efficiently, achieving smoother, healthier, and more natural results. According to NHS guidance on cosmetic surgery recovery, post-operative care must be tailored to each stage of healing.

Final Thoughts

After two decades working with post-surgical patients, I’ve learned that healing is never passive; it’s a process that needs to be understood, supported, and guided.
Fibrosis is not an error of the body; it’s a sign of repair. Our role as therapists is to ensure that this repair happens in the right direction, so tissue remains soft, functional, and aesthetically balanced. With expert guidance, fibrosis after cosmetic surgery supports lasting, natural recovery.

It’s time to move beyond outdated post-operative routines and embrace a more informed, phase-specific approach to recovery.
When we guide the healing process with intention, the results speak for themselves: faster recovery, improved outcomes, and patients who truly understand their bodies.

If you’re navigating your recovery or looking to improve your post-surgical protocols, reach out to a qualified post-op or lymphoedema specialist.

Knowledge, timing, and the right techniques make all the difference.

The post Fibrosis After Cosmetic Surgery:Why MLD Isn’t Enough appeared first on Perea Clinic.

The benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage MLD are enormous. In recent years, we have seen an increased number of research related to the benefits of this treatment and the number of patients looking for this treatment increased too. The reason why varie from patient to patient.  Some of them just had surgery and they want to get rid of retained fluid and recover faster; pregnant ladies want to reduce excess fluids, patients with autoimmune diseases want to make their systems work better; lipoedema and liphoedemapatients want to reduce inflammation and boost their immune function; other patients just want to eliminate toxins, and so on.  In this article we share with you how MLD can help naming some of the multiple benefits of this treatment.  So, let’s start with the basis. 

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage MLD?

Manual lymphatic Drainage MLD is a massage technique that favors the lymphatic, circulatory and immune system. This gentle form of  rycthmic performance improves lymph flow, a colorless fluid that flows through the lymphatic vessels and nodes.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage consists of slow, gentle and circular rythmic movements performed in one direction (flollows the path of through the lymphatic nodes). Your specialised therapists will use her/his fingers or palms throughout your body in the direction of the lymphatic circulation. It is not a painful procedure, on the contrary, it is very relaxing. As it serves to promote the elimination of toxins, it also provides a feeling of well-being during and after the procedure.

What is the lymphatic system?

Your lymphatic system (part of your immune system) is a network of vessels and nodes that moves back a fluid called lymph into your bloodstream. The lymphatic system has many functions, some of them are: 

• Protects your body from invaders like: germs, viruses, infections, etc., which cause illness.
• Maintains body fluid levels.
• Boost immune function.
• Absorbs digestive tract fats. 
• Removes cellular waste and toxins. 

What is the lymph?

The lymph is a clear fluid (similar to blood) that contains nutrients and oxygen. It is deposited around the cells to keep them nourished. The cells are able to discard waste and toxic materials into this fluid. However, it flows slower than blood and is easily saturated by factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet. For this reason, MLD is so important because it helps to release any obstruction from the lymphatic system.

What are the benefits of MLD? 

Manual lymphatic drainage has significant benefits for different health areas and purposes; for this reason, nowadays more health practitioners recommend it as part of their treatments. Some of these benefits are:

Therapeutic 

• Reduces inflammation in conditions like lipoedema and lymphoedema.
• Complementary therapy for autoimmune conditions and more.
• Stimulates kidney functions.
• It’s useful for the treatment of blood circulation problems (venous insufficiency).
• Helps to reduce lymphatic problems.
• Stimulates the immune system, increasing the body’s own defenses.
• Helps to protect your body against bacteria and viruses as it works in conjunction with the immune system.
• It has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system.
• Its direct effect on the parasympathetic system generates a relaxing effect.
• Tones the intestine, which helps fight constipation.
• Regulates the body’s water balance.
• Lowers blood pressure.
• Reduces stress.

Sports

• Helps to prepare your muscles for physical effort, this allows greater performance and better recovery.
• Reduces pain and inflammation.

After surgical procedures

• Post Surgical Lymphatic Drainage Massage helps to eliminate fluids accumulated during and after the procedure.
• Help to reduce pain caused by the excess of fluids.
• Reduces bruises that can appear after a liposuction procedure or other surgical procedures.
• Prevents seroma.
• Reduces fibrosis.
• Speeds up the recovery process.
• Reduces swelling.

Aesthetic 

• Reduces cellulite. It reduces fat deposits and stimulates circulation, as a result, it improves the condition of orange peel.
• Improves the condition of tired legs.
• Reduces problems associated with fluid retention,  poor circulation, and localized fat.
• Helps reduce varicose veins.
• Hydrates the skin and helps to revitalize it, considerably reducing wrinkles and stretch marks. .
• Helps with shape definition.

Certainly, these effects can be achieved thanks to the movements and gentle pressure that favor cellular rejuvenation and the elimination of waste.

What to expect after the MLD? 

• First, thanks to the stimulation of kidney function your urine could become darker and smelly for one or two days.
• Second, as MLD removes toxins through the urine it’s normal that your urination frequency increases for a few hours after the massage.
• Third, swelling and inflammation will decrease.
• In addition,  you will experience an amazing body relaxation and a feeling of general well-being. However, you could feel very tired and heavy after the drainage as your body is trying to get rid of the toxins.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324518

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21199-lymphatic-system

https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-lymph-drainage-massage

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We would like to help you with your recovery from the London Marathon. But, first of all, congratulations! If you completed the run it must be a huge relief. What once may have seemed like an impossible challenge is now achieved. You have completed the London Marathon. It’s time to put your feet up … literally!

 London Marathon 2024 Recovery – Physical

One of the most important parts of the recovery is the physical aspect, but never forget the emotional one. No one could have described how physically depleted you would feel after the event, but now you know! It would have been too frightening to contemplate how severe the after-effects of the run would be. The truth of the matter is, you have put your body through shock.

Put another way, you have put your body through mild trauma. It was all for a good cause, but the extent of what you have gone through shouldn’t be underestimated. In these early days, your body is far more vulnerable in many ways. Your immune system is more compromised. Your muscular-skeletal system has taken a battering. And your digestion and sleep may still become compromised.

5 Rs – Rest, Repair, Rehydration, Replenish, Rehabilitation

Here is a guide to managing the physical aspect of your London Marathon recovery. I would encourage you to focus on what I call the 5Rs … rest, rehydration, repair, replenishment and rehabilitation.

1.Rest is very  important 

First and foremost you need to rest. Estimates vary on how long you should have a complete rest from running for. Experts say from a minimum of a week up to 2 or 3 weeks. If you are a novice runner I would strongly advise you to be cautious. Don’t let your recent success lure you back into pounding the pavement too soon.

If you rest for 2 or 3 weeks, the loss in terms of your cardiovascular fitness will be minimal. On the other hand, the long-term benefits of the rest will be substantial. Once you’re in a position to start training again, you will quickly be able to regain that same level of fitness. And, what’s more, you have the added bonus of your newly acquired muscle memory.

2.Allow time for Body Repair 

Next, you must start to think about repairing the body. There are some critical elements to the repair process. Among them are good nutrition, rehydration (on an ongoing basis) and ensuring good circulation. Good circulation is so crucial. Blood carries the oxygen and nutrients to the cells that help repair the body. Good circulation facilitates this.

The goal at this stage is to abstain from or minimise the time spent running. You’ll need to seek alternative means of boosting circulation. You can look at gentle alternatives for your cardio-vascular work such as swimming or cycling. Or, better still, book in for a restorative sports massage and a Manual Lymphatic Drainage.

3 and 4. Replenish and rehabilitation

You also need to replenish your body. Crucially you need to restock on electrolytes. Here are some top tips on what to eat for your London Marathon recovery:

• Soup
• Olives
• Seaweed
• Tomatoes
• Sweet potatoes
• Raisins
• Nuts
• Leafy green vegetables
• Lentils
• Protein: eggs, meat, fish, chicken, pork (what you like the most!)
• Drink Plenty of water

These foods will help replenish the body’s sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, protein and magnesium needs. Magnesium, in particular, will help you fight fatigue.

5. Rehabilitation.

This crucially involves two components, long gentle stretching and further post-event massage massage.

London Marathon 2024- Psychological and Emotional Recovery

Many people get a sense of sadness after completing the Marathon. This is partly because something that allowed them to be so completely focused has been taken away. But, it is also because the enormous physical demands on the body have a corresponding effect on the emotions. Here some tips that will help you…

Set a new goal  or challenge 

Good food and nutrition, as well as plenty of sleep and rest, will help you deal with your emotions. However, it can also be of enormous benefit to set yourself a new goal or challenge. This doesn’t have to be another endurance event, but if you have trained cautiously and started to enjoy your running, you might want to consider entering shorter distances in a few months time. It would, after all, seem a shame to waste your new found ability.

If not running, then perhaps find a totally new challenge; possibly that doesn’t involve pounding the streets for hours on end on a cold November  morning!

We hope this information is useful. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill and Islington. We are always glad to help. If you like this blog, please share!

 Share your new goals  after the London Marathon or  challenge with us!

The post 5 Rs to recover fast: Restoring Strength for Runners appeared first on Perea Clinic.

It’s time to start putting together the last bits to your training plan for the London Marathon 2024. At this point the big day is less than one a week away.

Now is the time when you should have reduced those long runs. And although you are probably fatigued and short of time, it’s time to start planning for the lead up to, and for the run itself.

Participating in the London Marathon is an amazing experience, that is why it’s important to train your mind and body. Also, you can get the advantage of expert unusual tips to give your best while enjoying the event. Here are some unconventional tips to help you tackle the race successfully and full of energy and joy.

Don´t Rush, just Run: Purchases Before Race day

These are few things you should buy before the day of the London Marathon

 1. Invest in a hydration belt

You will know by now that hydration is a huge part of running. There are regular water stations on the marathon course. However, they can get congested and cause you anxiety. With a hydration belt, you are in control. And it gives you somewhere convenient to store your energy gels. It will also come in handy for your remaining long runs. These belts are very lightweight, and the good ones are very comfortable.

2. Get some Vaseline and tape to keep distractions out of your way

Most people get surprised by distractions, but you can avoid most of them; let me tell you how: If it is hot, you’ll want to keep the sweat out of your eyes. Simply by applying a little Vaseline above the line of the eyebrows, the sweat from your forehead will stay out of your eyes.

 Vaseline can also be used to avoid jogger’s nipple (irritation caused by the friction of the T-shirt on your nipples).

On the other hand, if it is windy on race day, some tape can be very useful. A pinned race number will flap around and annoy you. Simply by tapping your running number to your running vest, you can avoid that distraction.

3. Try  Meditation or Mindfulness

If you haven’t tried mindfulness or meditation, give them a go. They are great tools to help relieve anxiety before the event. You’ll sleep better, too. If you haven’t done it before, simply follow the instructions and allow yourself to relax; you can find meditation and mindfulness guides in apps, you tube, Spotify, etc.

Run London- Before Race day

4. Learn the lyrics to a new song

Why?: This one is highly unusual but serves a purpose. Even a couple of verses will do. The idea is to give yourself something to distract you when the going gets tough. Singing to yourself (silently) at miles 22 or 23 could be a novel idea for getting you over the hump.

5. Schedule in some Post event massage 

Modern athletes invest in healing techniques! There is a reason for this. A massage is a wonderful form of rehabilitation from strenuous exercise. Your body has taken a hammering during your training. You need to replenish the muscles as much as possible before you reach the start line. So book up some restorative sessions now before the rush starts.

Run London: Unusual Tips for Race day

6. Be social

Make the day a memorable experience. To help reduce anxiety, chat to fellow runners. Especially in the early miles. (Providing they are ok with it!). It is a good way to monitor your exertion rate too. In the early miles, you should be going slow enough to hold a short conversation.

7. Look ahead

• Try focusing your gaze about 100 feet ahead of you. If you start to look toward your feet, your posture will suffer. And poor posture will hamper your running efficiency. 
• Keep your posture tall, shoulders relaxed, and arms swinging smoothly. Engage your core muscles for stability.
• Look  up, it also means you will get to experience more of the event.
• Maintain good running form throughout the race to conserve energy and reduce the risk of injury. 

8. Run smart, find the right path

There are little tricks you can do to beat the weather. 

• If it’s hot, try and find the most shaded parts of the course on the way around. Anything that keeps your body temperature down will help you in the long run. 
• On the other hand, if it is windy, run directly behind a small group. Shielding yourself from the wind will help you conserve energy.

9. Position your loved ones wisely

The crowd will lift you. And possibly more than you can possibly imagine. But the crowd thins out on certain parts of the course.

Seeing your loved ones (friends and family) will give you a special lift. Try and get them to stand away from the main crowd so they are easily seen, and can encourage you when you need it most.

10. Know how you will get much-needed energy

Towards the end of the run, your glycogen levels start to get depleted. That’s why energy gels come in handy at this stage. But they are not to everyone’s taste.

As a more palatable alternative, you can get the extra energy from mashed up bananas. These are easy to digest. Simply put them in a freezer bag, cut off one corner and tape over the open corner. Keep it in your hydration pack as a much-needed reserve store for the last leg of the marathon. Rip off the tape, and you are ready to go.

11.Proper recovery

 After crossing the finish line, prioritize recovery to aid in muscle recovery and reduce soreness. Refuel with a combination of carbohydrates and protein, hydrate well, and consider gentle stretching or foam rolling. Last, but not least, get your post-event massage to get rid of the stress and give your muscles a faster recovery. Hope you enjoy the event!

If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. If you like this blog, please share!

We are always happy to help!

The post Thinking Outside the Track: Key Unusual Tips for the Marathon Week appeared first on Perea Clinic.

Firstly, why do we feel pain? The simple answer is: To Protect You!

We could just end this article right there, put a big ‘full stop’ and all go home. That would give an answer to the question but it would still leave us scratching our heads and still asking, ‘but why do we feel pain and how does the body process it?’

Ultimately, your body tells you that you are in pain because it is telling you that something is wrong, and you need to do something about it. In fact, you can go to this web-site to avail pain-relieving products.

What is wrong? You have been exposed to a dangerous stimulus, for example fire, a damage has occurred for example a broken bone or an injured or stressed muscle.

You can think of how the body processes pain as a cycle of Stimulation; Transmission; Recognition and Localisation; and Awareness.

Lower back, neck, shoulder and knee pain

The biology of pain

Several things can stimulate specific nerve endings in the body. As examples, out of accidents you can seek help from injury claims lawyers in Pikesville to claim compensation.Pain can also be caused out of injury, inflammation, an impact, a stress or chemicals. These nerves transmit this stimulation to your brain, via your spinal cord, for processing. The specific part of the brain where this stimulus is processed is called the Thalamus.

Your brain performs two vital functions. Firstly, it tells your conscious mind that something is wrong in the part of your body where the stimulus originated, and it transmits that a message back to that part of your body. This all happens very quickly, and in many cases, it is a matter of microseconds and feels immediate.

These two actions that your Thalamus performs helps to achieve two things. It alerts your mind to the presence of a ‘bad’ stimulus with a hurting effect, and it identifies and localises the location of these on your body. This way you know that you are hurting and you know where you are hurting. Your body also has other complimentary nerves and mechanisms to help you identify the type of stimulus.

It will detect whether or not it is due to the cold or heat, or if it is due to blunt trauma, incorrectly positioned or inappropriately stretched muscle, or if it is due to one of many other causes. These nerve endings are pervasive in your body and are just about everywhere you can think of.

Why does pain last longer than the initial stimulus?

The brief answer to this question is that it is a combination of two things. It is a protection mechanism that alerts you to something that is hurting you and as long that hurting stimulus persists you continue to feel pain. If people are looking for attorneys for metal in baby food, and the pain caused due to it , they can get them from clicking on their official site.

Another reason that you can continue to feel pain even after there isn´t hurting stimulus, is that so long as these nerves are stimulated, they will continue to transmit information to the brain, which will continue to recognise the stimulus as pain and localise it. Finally, your brain will continue to make your conscious mind and body aware of the location of the pain.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!

The post How The Body Processes Pain – the underlying biology appeared first on Perea Clinic.

Regular massage comes with a host of potential benefits, but many people only have massages sporadically.

It is one of those things we might consider if we are going on a holiday. Or possibly something that springs to mind when you start to feel pain and tension in a set of muscles.

But few people consider receiving treatments on a regular basis.

So we take a closer look at the benefits of factoring in a treatment on a regular basis.

Regular Massage has numerous health benefits

Massage is about more than just pampering yourself or recovering from injury. Although, of course, it can suffice very well in either of those instances.

Let’s take, for example, the fact that massage can help to boost your immune system and endocrine system. This isn’t just hocus pocus or wishful thinking but is backed up by scientific evidence.

In this large-scale study it was apparent that hands-on intervention can have significant benefits. Of particular interest was the fact that massage can positively change your number of lymphocytes. These, in turn, have an important role in defending the body from disease.

Another area in which regular massage can help you is in improving the quality of your sleep. The chemistry of sleep is relevant in relation to massage because it directly influences the body’s production of serotonin, which is essential for the production of melatonin. Melatonin, in turn, plays an important role in helping to regulate sleep.

And increasingly, it is becoming apparent that sleep deprivation can have an adverse effect on health. So anything that can promote regular and deep sleep has to be beneficial.

There are also believed to be positive mental health benefits associated with massage. In the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, massage therapy was believed to help to ease depression.

In addition, massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety and elevate overall mood.

This is partly due to the increase in the feel-good hormone dopamine that plays an important role in learning, memory,  and positive emotions

The importance of time out

As we have already highlighted, massage has a host of benefits backed up by research. But just from a purely common sense point of view, it should not be under-estimated how valuable taking time out can be.

In the modern world, especially in a big city like London, it is possible to run from one activity to the next. Life becomes frantic and ever more challenging. Having a massage forces you to stop and fully rest. It is deeply restorative.

Of course, it is an investment. But it is an investment into one of the most important things, they are your health and your mental well-being.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help.

If you like this blog, please share!

The post The benefits of regular Massage – it’s not just about sore muscles appeared first on Perea Clinic.