Physical Therapies: Lymphatic Drainage, Laser, and More
Physical Therapies
Lymphatic Drainage
This technique involves massage using physical methods on an edematous area. It is performed with the fingertips, applying strong pressure in the direction of venous or lymphatic circulation.
Lymphatic System Functions: Protecting the body, transporting intestinal fat via chylomicrons, and removing accumulated interstitial fluid.
Lymphatic Drainage Directions: Used for lymphedema, aesthetic medicine for cellulite, eye bag removal, acne, and post-mastectomy care.
Laser Therapy
Light stimulation through radiation.
Laser Applications: Anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, analgesic, and biostimulatory effects (increases protein synthesis and energy production). Used in microsurgery (bloodless cuts) and tattoo removal.
Laser Contraindications: Can cause damage if applied directly to the eyes. Contraindicated in cancer or infected areas.
Reflexology
A physical massage technique with analgesic and biostimulant properties, primarily based on the theory of the feet. According to W. Fitzgerald, there are 10 energy channels, 5 on each side, running from head to toes through the hands.
Reflexology Directions: Indicated for stress, fatigue, constipation, insomnia, bronchial issues, and fluid retention, increasing perspiration and urination.
Magnet Therapy
A physical technique using natural or artificial magnetic fields.
Magnet Therapy Effects: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, increases peripheral circulation, stimulates cell metabolism and protein synthesis, promoting healing processes.
Heliotherapy
A physical treatment method using direct exposure to sunlight, including gamma and infrared rays.
Photosensitivity: Abnormal reaction to sunlight, caused by conditions like lupus or drugs such as tetracycline.
Acupuncture
A Chinese method, practiced for 5000 years, using needles inserted 5 to 6mm into 1000 energy points.
Types: Classical acupuncture, auriculopuncture, electroacupuncture, moxibustion.
Acupuncture Drawbacks: Not recommended for children under 7 years old. Difficulty distinguishing between qualified practitioners and amateurs. If needles are not sterilized, infections like hepatitis B and AIDS can occur.
Thermotherapy
The therapeutic use of heat, applied to the body or generated within it.
Body Heat: Conduction, convection, radiation, conversion.
Effects of Heat:
- Local effects: Increased blood flow, analgesic and anti-inflammatory, relaxing.
- General effects: Generalized vasodilation, increased sweating, can cause hypotension.
Cryotherapy
The therapeutic application of cold.
Effects of Cold: Decrease in body temperature, vasoconstriction, anesthetic effects.
Indications and Contraindications: Reduces pain, temperature, and inflammation. Contraindicated for skin lesions and high sensitivity.
Thalassotherapy
A physical method using water and marine hydrology for therapeutic purposes. It is the branch of medicine that studies the medicinal effects of mineral water on the body.