One of the most important things that you can do for yourself whether you are a man or a woman is to get breast and lymphatic work done on a regular basis. The breasts are one of the most common body tissues, that is not worked during a massage. Usually it's not massaged on do to social innuendos or the client/therapist is uncomfortable working with breast tissue.

 

Our breast are part of us. Our identities, our sexuality and symbols of woman and mother hood. Without them it's like a piece of us is lost. Breast massage and lymphatic drainage is necessary for proper body maintenance. Yet it should be incorporated in our daily routine but is not. If we as women do not take care of our breast problems can and will arise.

 

Our lymph system is the garbage disposal of the body. It aides the body by removing metabolic waste and regulates temperature levels. When we move our bodies this can assist in movement of lymph. The slightest gentle vibrations can activate the lymphatic system. When this vital function becomes stagnant, the tissues will become saturated with fluid in which swelling occurs. Most individuals see swelling in their upper and lower extremities such as hands, calves, ankles and feet.

 

We do not have muscles in our breast to help assist the movement of lymph. You or a medical professional can help the process by gently massaging the breast. When the lymph is stagnant breast tissue can become heavy, tender, inflamed or may have fibrous adhesion's. These are warning signs that need to be addressed immediately with a healthcare practitioner. When the breasts are dense they may pull on the trapeze and pectoral muscles causing tension in the shoulders and neck. This is not limited discomfort and pain.

 

When coming in for you consult it will state on the form if you want breast work done. You can opt for this service or not. I would like for you to be aware I do provide the service with the massage session. If you feel uncomfortable having a therapist work in breast area, I can show you how to perform your own breast massage. From there you can do it on your own free time and in the privacy of your own home.

 

I want to get the word out that healthy breasts are essential part of your health and well-being. If you do not massage your own breasts problems may arise. Breast tissue is just as important as massaging the rest of the body. Consider your body as a car. It is necessary maintenance for the vessel you are in. 

 

If you family history of breast cancer, please consider having regular lymphatic drainage and breast massage work performed. Your massage therapist is one of your first line of defense. They can find knots, tumors, cyst in the breast tissues. They can alert you so that you may consult your doctor on the matter.

 

Suzan Walker, LMT, CR, LDT
Connective Integration Massage Therapy
Arlington, Texas​

 

Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician.