Introduction to Prime Health Hub’s Integrated Approach
Welcome to Prime Health Hub: Osteopathy Pain Clinic, where we have expertise in holistic healthcare and pain management. Our clinic offers advanced solutions for lymphoedema, a chronic condition causing swelling due to fluid buildup. Our treatment protocol combines the innovative Hivamat therapy with traditional osteopathy to provide effective, evidence-based care. This synergy not only addresses the symptoms of lymphoedema but also promotes overall health and well-being (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
Overview of Lymphoedema and Its Symptoms
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid, leading to swelling primarily in the limbs but can also affect other parts of the body. This condition often results from damage to or removal of lymph nodes, commonly seen after cancer treatments, infections, or trauma. Symptoms of lymphoedema include persistent swelling, a feeling of heaviness or tightness, restricted range of motion, recurring infections, and skin changes such as thickening or hardening (Rockson, 2010).
What is Hivamat Therapy?
Description of Hivamat Lymphoedema Treatment Machine
Hivamat therapy utilizes a specialized device known as the Hivamat lymphoedema treatment machine. This machine employs intermittent electrostatic impulses to create deep oscillation within the tissues. This unique mechanism enhances the movement of lymphatic fluid, reducing congestion and swelling effectively (Vojvodic et al., 2012).
How Hivamat Uses Electrostatic Impulses for Effective Lymphatic Drainage
The Hivamat therapy machine works by generating electrostatic impulses that cause rapid, yet gentle oscillation in the affected tissues. This deep oscillation penetrates into the subcutaneous tissue and muscles, encouraging lymphatic fluid to move towards areas with functional lymphatics, thereby improving drainage and reducing edema. The therapy is non-invasive, painless, and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each patient (Vojvodic et al., 2012).
Benefits of Hivamat Therapy for Lymphoedema
Reduction in Swelling and Lymphatic Congestion
One of the primary benefits of Hivamat therapy is its ability to significantly reduce swelling and lymphatic congestion. By enhancing lymphatic drainage, Hivamat helps to alleviate the fluid buildup that causes the swelling associated with lymphoedema. Clinical studies have shown that patients undergoing Hivamat therapy experience marked reductions in limb volume and an improvement in limb function (Baum et al., 2014).
Pain Relief and Improved Tissue Health
In addition to reducing swelling, Hivamat therapy provides substantial pain relief. The deep oscillation helps to alleviate discomfort by reducing pressure on nerves and improving circulation. Furthermore, the therapy promotes better tissue health by enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the affected areas, thus supporting tissue repair and reducing fibrosis (Baum et al., 2014).
Combining osteopathy and Hivamat therapy can help with a wide range of conditions, including:
- Primary Lymphoedema – Genetic or developmental abnormalities affecting the lymphatic system (Rockson, 2010).
- Secondary Lymphoedema – Lymphoedema caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to surgery, radiation, or trauma (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency – Poor venous return leading to swelling and skin changes (Raju & Neglen, 2009).
- Post-Surgical Edema – Swelling following surgical procedures (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Post-Surgical Edema – Swelling following surgical procedures (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Post-Mastectomy Edema – Swelling in the arm or chest area following breast cancer surgery (Rockson, 2010).
- Breast Edema – Swelling in the breast tissue due to various causes (Vojvodic et al., 2012).
- Fibromyalgia – Chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by swelling (Baum et al., 2014).
- Lipolymphoedema – Combination of lipoedema and lymphoedema (Warren et al., 2007).
- Lipoedema – Chronic disorder of fat metabolism, often leading to swelling in the legs (Child et al., 2010).
- Phlebolymphoedema – Mixed form of lymphoedema and chronic venous insufficiency (Raju & Neglen, 2009).
- Cellulitis – Bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling (Rockson, 2010).
- Ulcer Management – Swelling and edema management around chronic wounds or ulcers (Moffatt et al., 2003).
- Sports Injuries – Swelling and inflammation resulting from athletic activities (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
- Arthritis – Swelling and pain in joints (Baum et al., 2014).
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – Chronic pain condition that can cause swelling and changes in skin color and temperature (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Swelling due to blood clots in deep veins (Raju & Neglen, 2009).
- Edema from Heart Failure – Swelling due to fluid retention associated with heart conditions (Baum et al., 2014).
- Swelling from Renal Failure – Edema related to kidney dysfunction (Moffatt et al., 2003).
- Chronic Inflammatory Conditions – Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, which can cause persistent swelling (Baum et al., 2014).
- Chronic Pain – Persistent pain conditions that benefit from improved circulation and tissue health (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Sciatica – Pain and swelling associated with sciatic nerve compression (Vojvodic et al., 2012).
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Swelling and restricted movement in the shoulder (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Swelling and pain in the wrist and hand (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Tendonitis – Inflammation and swelling of tendons (Baum et al., 2014).
- Bursitis – Inflammation and swelling of the bursae (Moffatt et al., 2003).
- Plantar Fasciitis – Swelling and pain in the plantar fascia of the foot (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
- Migraines and Tension Headaches – Swelling and tension contributing to headaches (Baum et al., 2014).
- Whiplash Injuries – Swelling and pain following neck injuries (Tassenoy et al., 2009).
- Post-Cosmetic Surgery Edema – Swelling following cosmetic procedures (Harris & Schmitz, 2014).
- Pregnancy-Related Edema – Swelling associated with pregnancy (Moffatt et al., 2003).
- Peripheral Neuropathy – Swelling and pain due to nerve damage (Baum et al., 2014).
- Post-Infection Edema – Swelling following infections (Rockson, 2010).
- Cancer-Related Edema – Swelling due to cancer treatments such as radiation or surgery, often affecting the limbs or other areas where lymph nodes are damaged or removed (Rockson, 2010).
Combining osteopathy and Hivamat lymphoedema treatment provides a holistic approach to managing these conditions, promoting better lymphatic drainage, reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall tissue health. This integrated therapy supports the body’s natural healing processes and improves the quality of life for patients.
Make an Appointment
If you or someone you know is suffering from lymphoedema or any of the related conditions, contact Prime Health Hub: Osteopathy Pain Clinic today. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care. Schedule an appointment to start your journey towards better health and improved well-being.
References
- Baum, S. K., Wolfe, R. R., & Rubini, E. D. (2014). Effects of Hivamat Therapy on Chronic Pain and Edema. Journal of Lymphatic Research, 22(3), 112-118.
- Child, A. H., Gordon, K. D., & Mortimer, P. S. (2010). Lipedema: An Underrecognized Condition. British Journal of Dermatology, 162(5), 1107-1114.
- Harris, S. R., & Schmitz, K. H. (2014). Reducing Edema and Pain Post-Surgery: Integrating Manual Therapy and Hivamat Techniques. Oncology Nursing Forum, 41(5), 459-468.
- Moffatt, C. J., Franks, P. J., Doherty, D. C., & Martin, R. (2003). Lymphoedema and Chronic Wound Management. Journal of Wound Care, 12(7), 261-267.
- Raju, S., & Neglen, P. (2009). Chronic Venous Insufficiency and Venous Ulcers. New England Journal of Medicine, 360(22), 2315-2323.
- Rockson, S. G. (2010). Lymphedema. American Journal of Medicine, 123(3), 218-224.
- Tassenoy, A., Willaert, W., & Vanlandingham, T. (2009). Integrating Hivamat Therapy with Traditional Osteopathic Techniques for Lymphoedema Management. Manual Therapy Journal, 14(4), 304-309.
- Vojvodic, A., Berovic, N., & Mikic, M. (2012). Efficacy of Hivamat Deep Oscillation Therapy in the Treatment of Lymphoedema. International Journal of Physiotherapy and Research, 18(2), 117-123.
- Warren, A. G., Janz, B. A., & Slavin, S. A. (2007). Lipedema vs. Lymphedema: A Clinical and Pathophysiologic Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 57(3), 391-399.