#Lymphedema is a prevalent complication following breast cancer surgery #Mastectomy, resulting from disruptions to the lymphatic system anatomy. Tissue removal, altered and removal of #lymphatic and vascular pathways, scar adhesion all create 2 aspects of #edema congestion. The first is edema post surgery in the area due to the surgical procedure. The second is the upper limb and thoracic lymphedema due to alterations of the lymphatic anatomy, #chemotherapy and #radiotherapy. Managing lymphedema effectively is critical to improving patients’ quality of life. In addition #NeuroMuscularTaping (#NMT) introduces a structured and physiological method for managing lymphatic flow, enhancing #Lymphaticdrainage and reducing the effects of #postsurgery lymphedema.
#decompressiontaping, #rehabilitation, #pain, #neuropathy, #linfotaping, #nursing
Training Workshop In Breast Surgery Rehabilitation (3 days – 24 hours) Not available online.
Lymphedema is a prevalent complication following breast cancer surgery, resulting from disruptions to the lymphatic system anatomy. Managing lymphedema effectively is critical to improving patients’ quality of life. Traditional approaches such as elastic compression taping or bandaging have their benefits but are often accompanied by discomfort and limited long-term effectiveness. Furthermore NeuroMuscular Taping (NMT) introduces a more structured and physiological method for managing lymphatic flow and reducing the effects of post-surgery lymphedema. In this workshop, we will explore the clinical utilisation of NMT, a decompression taping methodology, which offers distinct advantages in supporting the body’s natural healing processes, reducing scar adhesions, lymphatic and vascular lymphangitis, reducing edema and facilitating lymphatic system functioning.
Embracing Elastic Decompression Taping in Rehabilitation
NMT’s decompression taping methodology works by enhancing the body’s natural lymphatic drainage system functioning. Rather than applying pressure to constrict and compress, NMT uses eccentric (decompressive) applications to relieve pressure (creating negative pressure), dilating the tissue and facilitating the intrinsic pumping action of lymphangions (the muscular walls of lymphatic vessels that propel lymph fluid). This method fosters the movement of lymphatic fluid, reducing the risk of prolonged edema, which is often a side effect of cancer surgery. In addition, the elastic decompression effect enhances blood circulation and tissue oxygenation, providing vital support in reducing inflammation and improving recovery outcomes.
Leveraging NeuroMuscular Taping
NMT focuses on creating dynamic decompression through coordinated movements between the skin, connective tissue, muscles, and skeletal system. By continuously modifying pressure, NMT optimises fluid exchange, allowing for better lymphatic drainage and reduction in scar tissue adhesion. This decompression also stimulates nerve endings and improves sensory feedback, crucial for patients recovering from breast cancer surgery who may suffer from limited mobility, scar tissue pain, or persistent edema.
Targeted Treatment Protocols for Breast Cancer Survivors
Breast cancer survivors often face post-operative challenges such as chronic lymphedema, scar adhesion, and limited mobility. NeuroMuscular Taping offers a holistic approach to these concerns by applying targeted decompression to areas affected by surgery. Continuous therapy using NMT helps reduce edema, enhances skin elasticity, and improves the overall range of motion for patients. Additionally, scar tissue flexibility improves, which can alleviate the pain and restrictions caused by surgical interventions.
Specific NMT treatment protocols designed for breast cancer rehabilitation focus on managing post-acute rehabilitation, particularly in addressing mobility and sensory deficits associated with breast surgery and lymphedema. By implementing these “Skill Know-How” protocols, healthcare professionals can provide patients with tangible improvements in recovery and overall well-being.
Key Topics Covered in the Training Workshop
- Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Emphasis on the rehabilitation phase following mastectomy and lumpectomy, with special attention to the acute and chronic phases of recovery.
- Decompression Lymphatic Taping: Application of specific NMT techniques designed to improve lymphatic drainage, reduce tissue adhesion, and enhance oxygenation of tissues affected by breast surgery.
- Mobility and Sensibility: Targeting common post-surgery complications, including peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and restricted shoulder mobility, using NMT.
- Treatment of Lymphedema and Edema: Using decompression taping to manage chronic and acute lymphedema, as well as promoting Lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic sprouting as well tissue repair.
Clinical Objectives and Expected Outcomes
- Optimising Lymphedema Management: Provide healthcare professionals with NMT methodologies to reduce fluid retention and prevent scar adhesions in breast cancer patients.
- Restoring Mobility and Functionality: Help patients regain mobility through improved joint flexibility and pain reduction by optimising lymphatic flow and nerve stimulation.
- Enhancing Patient Quality of Life: By employing decompression taping, patients can achieve faster recovery times and greater comfort during their rehabilitation, less edema, more mobility and blood circulation to the limb leading to improved healing capacity and recovery outcomes.
- Facilitating Damaged Tissue Regeneration: Enhanced blood circulation to the surgery site as well the affected limb with lymphedema will assist in maintaining muscle, connective tissue and skin tone.
Previous Presentations and Global Recognition
The NMT method has been presented at various international conferences and healthcare seminars, solidifying its reputation as a complementary therapy for managing lymphedema and enhancing recovery from breast cancer surgery. Key presentations include:
- 24th International Congress of Lymphology, 2013 in Rome.
- XVIII Congreso International de Flebologia y Linfologia, 2018 in Buenos Aires.
- 46th Congress of the European Society of Lymphology, 2022 in Assisi.
- Indonesian Conference on Lymphedema, 2024
- Blow, D. (2013). NeuroMuscular Taping: Treatment of Edema, Lymphatic Drainage, and Scars. ISBN: 978887051599-2. Editor Edit Ermes, Milan
The inclusion of NMT in prestigious conferences and its recognition as a Class 2 treatment option for lymphedema in Argentina and South America underlines the growing global acceptance of this method.
Conclusion
The NMT breast surgery rehabilitation course provides invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, enabling them to deliver effective, evidence-based care to patients recovering from cancer surgery. By adopting decompression NeuroMuscular Taping for improving lymphatic system functioning, practitioners can offer sustainable solutions that enhance the quality of life and rehabilitation outcomes for breast cancer survivors.
Target Audience: Doctors, Physical Therapists, Lymphatic Drainage Specialists, Occupational Therapists, and Massage Therapists.
See the LINKEDIN NMT Newsletter
Are you interested in enrolling in an NMT Course?
The NeuroMuscular Taping Institute provides certification courses in physical rehabilitation, neurology, oncology, post surgical rehab, occupational therapy, speech therapy, remedial therapy, nursing as well vascular and lymphedema treatment and management. All trainings are classroom settings to enhance skill development and clinical reasoning creating optimum therapeutic results. ONLINE courses are not available. Please contact your local course provider or visit the NMT WEB SITE for course programs and dates.
For more details, course listings, and registration for an upcoming course CLICK HERE
Do you require validation of your NMT methodology for research purposes?
A detailed Neuromuscular Taping methodology is crucial in any research project for several reasons. Repeatability, Transparency, Validity and Reliability of your treatment choices will not only have an impact on your research but also an impact on future therapeutic choices. For more detailed information about the NMT, please contact us at: david.blow@nmtinstitute.org
Know someone who might be interested in this newsletter? Share it with them.