Lymphatic Self Massage - How to Soften a Swollen or Firm Area in the Lower Leg [Part 16 of 20]

Learn what to do if your skin is firm or swollen. Use this deeper massage to soften your skin.
Disclaimer:
This video does not replace seeing a Combined Decongestive Therapist. It is meant as a guide for patients to follow at home after learning from their therapist. Doing the massage without the proper training is not recommended.
For more information visit these websites:
Print version of this resource:
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Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Lymphedema Clinic website:
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Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Patient and Family Library:
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Transcription:
Sylvia: Pam some people experience more swelling or firmness in their lower leg. Is there anything they can do to soften this area?
Pam: Yes there is. You can do some very gentle kneading. What you want to do is use your fingertips. This is the only time you use your finger tips. Place your fingertips where you feel the tissue hard or firm. Gently push in and up towards your knee. You want to repeat this stroke in the same area several times until you feel the tissue soften. You can do this several times throughout the day if necessary. So I am pushing in, releasing up. This is firmer than the gentle massage we have been doing but it is still not a deep massage. You can follow this stroke with the gentle stretching and releasing of the skin that we have been showing you in the demonstration.
Pam: If this kneading is difficult for you, you can also help to soften the tissue by gently squeezing. Again you squeeze on one area several times. You can do this with one hand or two hands whatever is comfortable for you. Once you feel this tissue soften, gentle stretch the skin and release as we have been showing you in the demonstration.
Sylvia: Thanks Pam
Pam: You're welcome. The information within this video is not intended to replace any advice provided to you by your health care team. For your safety, we ask that you do not act on the information within these videos without first discussing your treatment or healthy living plan with your qualified health care providers.
For more information about UHN Patient & Family Education, visit www.uhnpatienteducation.ca.