Breast massage is a useful tool in maintaining the health of your breast tissue, lymphatic system and underlying muscle. Breast massage can be performed by yourself or with the help of a partner. Or on the other hand with a trusted qualified practitioner. Read on to find out the benefits of breast massage.
Improve lactation
Breast massage in lactating women, can improve production and flow of breast milk. It can reduce incidence of mastitis. It also can reduce pain of breast feeding and therefore improve mother to child bonding.
Ease muscle tension
The breast tissue lies over the chest and rib muscles. Releasing tension under and around the breast can consequently improve muscle tension. This in turn can ease chest pain and congestion. Releasing the chest muscles can also balance tension through the back and neck, improving posture and neck related pain.
Regular massage can also reduce scar tissue that has occurred after surgery or injury.
Improve lymphatic flow
Breast massage can improve the flow of lymphatic fluids. These build up in and around the breast area. For example, this is common after surgery or illness, and a normal occurrence after breast cancer surgery.
According to a recent study, more than 1 in 5 people with breast cancer develop lymphedema. Symptoms include swelling in the arm, breast, or chest. Usually, it results from surgery or radiation. Women who have had lymph node removal will require some form of lymphatic drainage.
Lump detection
Regular self massage can help improve lump detection. According to studies, 25 percent of women end up detecting their breast cancer through self-exam. Detecting cancer in the early stages may improve your outcome, so it’s a good idea to make it part of your regular routine.
Men suffer from breast conditions too, including cancer. While incidence is low, prognosis is often poor because of late diagnosis.
When not to have breast massage
Massage is not recommended during mastitis, with post surgical infection, with a current infection for any reason, with any undiagnosed lump, abscess. Deep tissue massage is not recommended over breast implants.
When treating clients with breast cancer, the therapist must have oncology massage certifications along with a body of knowledge about cancer.
Self Breast Massage
You should never consent to breast massage if you do not, for whatever reason, feel comfortable with the person performing it. The therapist performing this should be qualified and a member of a massage association.
