Q4 Notes

Blood Pressure

  • Importance of BP in Massage

    • Safety Concerns

    • Client suitability for TX

  • Red Flags:

    • Hypertensive Crisis (>180/120): Refer to Dr

    • Hypotension (<90/60): Adjust client position

  • Effects of Heat & Cold on BP

  • Heat Application:

    • Causes Vasodilation (Lowers BP)

  • Cold Applications:

    • Causes Vasoconstriction (Raises BP)

Paraffin Wax

  • Paraffin Wax: Moist heat modality of mineral oil-infused paraffin wax; promotes circulation, pliability, & pain relief

  • How to Use

    • Keep temp 45-54C

    • Test on Self First

    • Ensure clean area

    • Disinfect monthly; remove cloudy wax

      • Can reuse wax if uncontaminated

  • Methods

  • Dip & Wrap: Best for hands & feet

  • Dip & Immerse: Deeper heat, less hygenic

  • Painting: For knees, elbows, shoulders

Lymphatic Conditions

  • Lymphatic System Function

    • Return Excess Fluid to Blood

    • Filters Pathogen & Disease

    • Supports Immune System

    • Absorbs Fats from Digestion

  • Key Catchments

    • Cervical

    • Axillary

    • Inguinal

    • Supraclavicular

  • Drainage Terrirtories

    • Right Lymphatic Duct: Right arm, right chest, right side of head

    • Thoracic Duct: Other part of the body

  • Lymphatic Terminus Location

    • At Venous Angle (Subclavian & Internal Jugular Vein)

    • Final draining point before lymph re-enters bloodstream

  • Lymph Node Anatomy

    • Cortex, Medulla, & Sinuses

    • Houses Immune Cells

    • More afferent vessels than efferent = slow filtration

  • Edema: Accumulation of fluid in interstitial spaces; systemic or localized

    • Linked to impaired lymphatic draininage

  • MLD

  • Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy

  • Promotes:

    • Fluid Reabsorption

    • Immune Function

    • Waste Clearance

    • Swelling Reduction

    • Nervous System Downregulation (Parasympathetic Tone)

  • Effectiveness?

    • Stimulates lymph flow through external mechanical pressure

    • Redirects fluid around blocked or damaged areas

    • Enhances reabsorption

    • Prepares body for drainage (starting proximally to distally)

Articulatorty Conditions

  • Osteoarthritis: Degenerative condition creating stiffness, crepitus, reduced & painful ROM

    • Use PROM, gentle effleurage, & postural support

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune inflammation; only treatment in remission

  • Osteoporosis: Fragile boes; high fracture risk

    • Avoid joint play & deep pressure

    • Support with light circulatory techniques

  • Sprains & Ligament Injuries

    • Inflammation; avoid massage during acute phase

    • Lymphatic work during Subacute