A Personal Experience of Breast Cancer Related Lymphoedema: Deep Oscillation Achieves & Maintains Major Reduction in Limb Size and Eliminates Cellulitis Episodes

October is recognised globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month for us all to come together and raise awareness of this devastating disease and its impact.

"Following breast cancer in 2001, I had a mastectomy, 21 lymph nodes removed from my right-hand side and radiotherapy. I developed lymphoedema and was referred to an NHS specialist. Initially, the procedure was described as “a bit like The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Still, after experiencing substantial swelling, I found MLD to be very effective, as evidenced by frequent toilet visits after each session!

Unfortunately, the NHS sessions were limited, often staggered with lengthy periods in between, and over the years, I experienced a number of episodes of cellulitis that developed into sepsis (resulting in hospital admissions for intravenous antibiotics, often for several days). After each episode, I was put back on the NHS list for another 6 sessions and reassessment for appropriate garments. My last episode of cellulitis was in December 2019.

I decided to seek out a private specialist and I now visit Alex Brooks roughly every 3 weeks. She mainly concentrates on my right arm; however, she has worked in several other areas when the need has arisen. I have told her and will note, that I particularly “enjoy” having Deep Oscillation, as I get the feeling that there is a deeper massage taking place (The Emperor is dressed!). I feel that I am blessed to have found Alex and have access to all her knowledge and experience.

For several years following my surgery, a previous therapist would use talcum powder when she performed MLD (to create some friction on my skin) and I would say, to an extent, Deep Oscillation feels similar, but is more intense, yet more pleasant. For me, there is a sense that the massage is not just happening on the surface, but that it is penetrating deeper, having a greater effect throughout my arm (which I have since read to be true). I notice a slight vibration, like trembling, in Alex’s hands, and this sensation travels through my arm, deeper than when handwork MLD is performed. In layman’s language, I feel as if the “inner tissues” are being given a good “shoogle” (shake), and that in turn gives me the feeling that deep oscillation is more effective.

I find the deep oscillation treatments to be very relaxing and have often fallen asleep. Even when we talk during treatments, I find I yawn and feel pleasantly calm and cosy. I would say I am very fortunate to have found an excellent therapist who has the knowledge and experience to suggest and incorporate Deep Oscillation into my therapy to enhance my treatments and results.

Speaking of results, I have downsized from an M into an XS compression sleeve and maintained this for over a year now. I have not had any further bouts of cellulitis since 2019 and hope never to have any in the future. I strongly believe that deep oscillation treatments in combination with my self-directed care, have led to me having achieved these results and maintained them."

Patient Identity Withheld On Request

Contact information for Therapist:

Alex Brooks Bsc. MRCOT

LTA Cert FG MLD & Lipoedema Therapist, Dr Vodder MLD DLT Practitioner, Reflexologist & Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage Therapist, Snr Occupational Therapist

alexbtherapy
Treatment Room 1
The Studio
Logie Business Park
Logie
Scotland
DD8 5PU
Mobile 07766 290 829