Massage and Bodywork

Definition

A massage technique developed in 1932 by a Danish medical doctor, E. Vodder, and his wife.  Dr. Vodder, created this method of massage primarily to treat his patients with swollen necks or limbs due to insufficient lymph flow. He applied a series of light, rhythmic strokes along the lymphatic vessels and surrounding tissues to help increase the flow of lymph back toward the heart thus reduce swelling in the affected area.

This form of massage can be used to treat lymphedema, a side effect of surgery or of radiation administered in the area of the lymph nodes.

General Benefits of Massage

• Gives a sense of well-being

• Decreases stress

• Decreases edema

• Decreases aches and pains

• Speeds up healing time after injury or surgery

• Helps prevent sports or movement injuries

• Increases relaxation

• Increases circulation

• Increases cellular detoxification

• Increases range-of-motion

• Relieves tension headaches