Exploring Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: Benefits for Dermatomyositis Patients
Recent research suggests that lymphatic dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiology of Dermatomyositis and other autoimmune diseases. So, the incorporation of Lymphatic drainage to the holistic treatment will help to improve symptoms and the general wellbeing of patients with different kind of conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore how Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT) can help dermatomyositis patients, enhancing their quality of life and complementing conventional treatments.
What is Dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory disease that primarily affects the skin and muscles. It is classified as an autoimmune disorder, in other words, your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. The condition can cause a distinctive skin rash, muscle weakness, and other systemic symptoms.
What are Dermatomyositis symptoms?
Symptoms of dermatomyositis can either appear suddenly or develop gradually over time. The two main symptoms are:
1. Muscle weakness
There are two types of muscle weakness:
- Proximal Muscle Weakness: it affects the muscles closest to the trunk, like thighs, hips, shoulders, and upper arms. You might find difficult to climb stairs, rise from a seated position, lift objects, or reach overhead.
- Bilateral Muscle Involvement: I t often affects both sides of the body and tends to worsen over time if not treated.
2. Skin changes.
- Heliotrope Rash: violet/dusky-red rash on your eyelids and may be accompanied by swelling.
- Gottron’s Papules: Papules (raised, scaly bumps) on the knuckles, elbows, knees, and other joints.
- Photosensitivity: skin sensibility to sunlight that exacerbates rashes after sun exposure.
- Shawl Sign and V Sign: Red or purple rashes on the upper back, shoulders (shawl sign), and across the chest in a V shape (V sign).
Other symptoms are:
- Muscle Pain
- Fatigue
- Joint Pain and Swelling
- Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing)
- Respiratory Issues (shortness of breath, coughing, and reduced lung function)
- Calcinosis (hard and painful calcium lumps)
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Digestive issues (constipation, abdominal pain or bloating)
- Heart issues (arrhythmias, myocarditis, or other cardiac complications).
What causes dermatomyositis?
Some causes might include:
- Genetic factors (gene mutation)
- Autoimmune issues
- Viral infections
- Environmental factors: pollution might make you more prone to develop this condition.
What is Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT)?
Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a gentle, hands-on technique that stimulates your lymphatic system, which plays a pivotal role in your body’s immune function. The lymphatic system helps remove toxins, waste, and excess fluids from the body, ensuring the immune system operates efficiently.
LDT involves light, rhythmic strokes applied by a trained therapist, which encourages the flow of lymph fluid, reducing swelling and promoting detoxification. This therapy is often used in various conditions, including lymphedema, post-surgical recovery, and autoimmune diseases.
How Does Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Benefit Dermatomyositis Patients?
- Reduction of Swelling and Inflammation
- Dermatomyositis patients often experience swelling due to inflammation and fluid retention. LDT helps reduce this swelling by promoting the efficient movement of lymphatic fluid, which can alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.
- Enhanced Immune Function
- The lymphatic system is crucial for immune function. By improving lymph flow, LDT may support the immune system’s ability to regulate itself, which is particularly beneficial for autoimmune conditions like dermatomyositis.
- Pain Relief
- Chronic pain is a common symptom of dermatomyositis. LDT’s gentle massage techniques can help relieve muscle tension and reduce pain by enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Improved Skin Health
- Dermatomyositis is known for causing skin rashes and lesions. Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can promote healthier skin by reducing toxins and waste products that may contribute to skin issues. Patients often report a reduction in skin symptoms after regular sessions.
- Stress Reduction
- Living with a chronic condition like dermatomyositis can be stressful, which may exacerbate symptoms. LDT is deeply relaxing, helping to reduce stress levels and promote a sense of well-being. This stress relief can, in turn, positively impact overall health and symptom management.
Dermatomyositis: What to Expect During a Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Session
A typical LDT session lasts between 45 minutes to an hour. The therapist uses light pressure and rhythmic movements to encourage lymph flow, focusing on areas where fluid tends to accumulate. Patients often find the experience soothing and leave the session feeling refreshed.
It’s essential to choose a therapist trained and experienced in Lymphatic Drainage Therapy, particularly one familiar with autoimmune conditions like dermatomyositis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new therapy to ensure it aligns with your overall treatment plan.
In short…
For dermatomyositis patients, managing symptoms is a daily challenge that often requires a tailored treatment. Adding Lymphatic Drainage Therapy to your Dermatomyositis treatment can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve your overall well-being.
If you’re living with dermatomyositis and looking for ways to enhance your treatment regimen, consider exploring Lymphatic Drainage Therapy. Its holistic benefits could provide the relief you’ve been seeking.
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://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15701-dermatomyositis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21751-genetic-disorders
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatomyositis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353188
