Lipoedema self care: DEEP OSCILLATION® information
For over 15 years, PhysioPod® UK has successfully supplied DEEP OSCILLATION® personal devices to those living with lipoedema and lymphoedema and to healthcare professionals in many fields of application, as is demonstrated in the PhysioPod Therapist Map. During this time, PhysioPod® UK has collected patient and therapist feedback, to back up clinical research, which has proved to be very helpful for those considering purchasing or hiring of personal units for pre and post lipoedema liposuction.
Lipoedema is abnormal accumulation of fat in specific areas of the body. Lipoedema is a chronic condition that often causes pain, swelling, and significant mobility challenges. Managing Lipoedema requires a comprehensive approach, which typically includes specialised treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and self-care strategies.
DEEP OSCILLATION IN LIPOEDEMA SELF CARE
Image description: 2 x 9.5 cm in diameter, Deep Oscillation handheld applicators are used in a circular motion in home management in the direction of lymphatic flow: reducing pain, oedema, bruising, boosting lymphatic drainage, improving tissue quality and enhancing mobility
In Lipoedema, The Deep Oscillation Personal Basic, is supplied with a bespoke card from PhysioPod® which is ideally suited for pain management and fibrosis reduction, based on feedback received. This is in addition to the pre-programmed range of common sporting, aesthetic and occupational indications, which can be supplied on request to interested individuals.
Deep Oscillation also has the wonderful effect of lightening 'heavy Lipoedema legs'..
"We can't begin to say how much of a difference it has made - to come home, use the unit for 20 minutes, and for it to take the heavy, fluidy, feeling out of our legs and arms and more importantly to relieve any pain. Thanks to Deep Oscillation, we have been able to halve the number of MLD massages we go for. Although it seems so gentle when using it, the massage helps to move a lot of fluid out of limbs. We would have no hesitation in recommending the personal unit to anyone, especially other sufferers of Lipoedema" Mum and Daughter.
"Investing in a DEEP OSCILLATION Personal Basic can result in fewer in-person clinic visits and lower ongoing costs after the initial outlay for the device." Bel Hardman
For more information to your inbox and pricing, please email info@physiopod.co.uk or call office on 01159 167685.
"Following my lipoedema diagnosis in March 2024, managing my condition has been a journey, particularly following surgery and in preparation for more to come. One tool that has made a significant difference in my post-op care and daily management is the Physiopod Deep Oscillation device. My Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) therapist introduced me to the tool, using it to target fibrotic areas and prevent scar tissue build-up after my initial surgery. After experiencing the positive effects, I decided to purchase a device for home use.
The device has been a fantastic addition to my routine, allowing me to work on affected areas at my own pace. It's incredibly user-friendly, with instructions that are straightforward to follow. With most areas within my reach, I only need minimal assistance from my husband for harder-to-reach spots on the back of my legs, buttocks, and middle-back. The training I received from Julie was simple yet thorough, giving me the confidence to use it effectively.
Since incorporating the Physiopod device into my self-care routine, I've noticed a reduction in discomfort and improved skin texture, which helps me feel more prepared for my upcoming surgeries. Having such a practical, easy-to-use tool to manage my condition independently is empowering, making it a game-changer in my lipoedema care."
Elisa McC - 12th November 2024
"I remember before I even had my lippy diagnosis but highly suspected it, I had three Deep Oscillation treatments with Dean at the clinic over about 5 weeks on my upper arms and they reduced in circumference by 3 cm, I knew then I had lipoedema as if it was just fat I'd not have seen the benefits. Also I used it before surgery and my surgeon said my lippy fat was very soft so easier for surgery. I'm still using it on inflammation, puffy days thanks to hormones and on fibrosis. It's a forever treatment for lippy regardless if or when you have surgery."
Bel Hardman - 14th November 2024
"Great article! I agree that a Deep Oscillation Personal device would greatly benefit anyone living with the impact of lipoedema. Former clients of mine, who purchased deep oscillation, used to tell me what a difference it made to their quality of life when they used it daily. They reported reduced pain and tissue tenderness, reduced swelling, especially in the areas where they experienced fluid buildup during the day, and softening of subdermal tissues. When a therapist or carer applied deep oscillation for them, they felt a sense of relaxation and relief. I believe that the cost can be off-putting, even though people understand that developing and manufacturing specialist equipment can be expensive. However, everyone I know who has bought equipment from Physiopod comments on what a supportive team you and Julie are, and I absolutely agree with that.
I can definitely endorse the Deep Oscillation Personal Basic for lipoedema self-management, as well as for lymphoedema self-management (providing no medical contraindications).
And I would encourage (and have done so often in the past) all Lymphoedema Practitioners to purchase one too, not only do your patients benefit, but treatments can be more effective. I found this especially so when treating patients with head and neck lymphoedema. As a therapist, I found that using deep oscillation reduced the strain on my hands, thumb joints and arms thus reducing the risk and impact of R.S.I, which many manual therapists experience.
I am confident that many more practitioners and patients would benefit from adding Deep Oscillation into their treatments and management regimes. Particularly in light of the increasing number of services being cut or reduced, or their referral criteria being reviewed, often to exclude lipoedema and occasionally to exclude lymphoedema related to non-cancer conditions.
Sue Hansard, Writer, Poet and Children's Storywriter, Lymphoedema Specialist, (retired)
Understanding DEEP OSCILLATION® Therapy
Image description: The special structure of DEEP OSCILLATION® allows the creation of biologically effective oscillations in the treated tissue using electrostatic attraction and friction. In contrast to other therapies, these pleasant oscillations have a gentle and deep-acting effect on all tissue components to an 8 cm depth (through skin, connective tissue, subcutaneous fat, muscles, blood and lymph vessels), loosening tissue layers to effectively drain metabolic deposits, thereby boosting the bodies lymphatic system and significantly reducing pain.
Supportive individuals (after guidance), can also become involved in treatment, accessing the areas that are more difficult to reach, either through applicators or gloves (contraindications checked). N.B. Self treatment is only possible through applicators (not gloves). A full Zoom session/one-to-one guidance is provided by Julie at PhysioPod with the purchase or hire of a unit. It is important also to note that it is very often the MLD Therapist that has suggested the client invest in a Deep Oscillation Personal Basic because they know the benefit this would provide and the improvement to quality of life. Those purchasing often book in another session with their therapist and take their unit with them. PhysioPod, the therapist and the patient work together to ensure the very best outcome.
Image Description: Deep Oscillation applied via the vinyl-gloved hands method from a partner or supportive other
Deep Oscillation can assist in managing symptoms and improving quality of life, both in conservative management and in pre and post lipoedema liposuction. When it is not feasible to visit an MLD Therapist or a patient wishes to supplement their MLD Deep Oscillation therapist treatments, investing in a personal device makes both therapeutic and economic sense.
Encouraging Lipoedema DEEP OSCILLATION® Patient Feedback
While clinical studies and practitioner input are essential in validating the efficacy of treatments, patient feedback provides unique and invaluable insights. Patient feedback on deep oscillation therapy is crucial in the context of self-care for lipoedema for the following reasons:
1. Personalised Experience
Each lipoedema patient has a unique experience with their condition. Feedback allows for a better understanding of how different individuals respond to Deep Oscillation, which can help tailor treatments to their specific needs. This personalisation is vital for maximising therapy's benefits in self-care routines.
2. Validation of Effectiveness
Patient testimonials and feedback serve as powerful tools in assessing the real-world effectiveness of Deep Oscillation. Clinical studies establish a baseline, but personal experiences can reveal improvements or challenges that controlled environments might miss. This information can prove valuable for practitioners, guiding their approach in recommending therapies.
3. Encouraging Patient Empowerment
Encouraging patients to share their feedback empowers them to actively participate in their treatment journey. This empowerment can foster a sense of ownership over their health and wellness, encouraging them to explore various self-care strategies effectively. Feeling heard and validated enhances the therapeutic relationship between patients and healthcare providers.
4. Guiding Future Research
Patient feedback can highlight emerging trends or commonalities in treatment responses that researchers may explore further. For instance, if a specific patient subgroup experiences significant benefits from Deep Oscillation future research could concentrate on comprehending the reasons behind this and devising optimal treatment protocols for this group.
5. Community Building
Creating platforms for patients to share their experiences cultivates a sense of community. Patients with lipoedema often experience isolation and often feel misunderstood. Gathering feedback and sharing on the PhysioPod website and on social media which is focused on deep oscillation therapy can connect individuals, allowing them to share tips, successes, and challenges. This can foster encouragement and solidarity among patients navigating similar journeys, in conservative management and for pre and post lipoedema liposuction.
6. Improving Quality of Care in Lipoedema
By placing the voices of patients at the forefront, the medical community can better understand the intricacies of lipoedema management and improve the quality of care for individuals living with this challenging condition.
If you have Lipoedema and use Deep Oscillation for self-management, how are you doing, if you haven't previously told us?
- How often are you using the device, and for how long each session?
- What were your first impressions of the device when you started using it?
- How comfortable do you find the device during use? Are there any areas that feel uncomfortable or painful?
- Have you noticed any changes in your symptoms since you began using the device? (e.g., reduction in pain, swelling, or heaviness, improved skin texture, less fibrosis, less bruising, more range of movement or other)
- Have you experienced any changes in your mood or energy levels after using the device?
- Do you feel that using the device has improved your daily function, mobility or mood/general well-being?
- How does the experience with the deep oscillation device compare to other treatments or therapies you've tried for Lipoedema?
- Would you recommend this device to others with Lipoedema? Why or why not?
- Overall, how satisfied are you with your results from using the personal device?
- What advice would you give to someone considering using a deep oscillation device for Lipoedema?
Answers to these questions will help us gather valuable insights into your experience and the device’s effectiveness in managing Lipoedema symptoms.
If you have questions about using Deep Oscillation in self management, we'd love to hear from you!
If you have Lipoedema and would like to have an informal one-to-one Zoom session with Julie about Deep Oscillation we'd love to hear from you!
If you are planning liposuction and want to have a device for personal pre and post surgery, you can ask us about hire costs and availability.
CONTACT: Email info@physiopod.co.uk or call office 01159 167685 or mobile 0788 692 5715
Image Description: Left to right: Julie Soroczyn, Bel Hardman, Dr Johanna Schreiber and Mary Fickling
Taken at Dr Johanna Schreiber's Lipoedema Information Event in London, September 2024.
Read more on Lipoedema and Deep Oscillation
References
The effects of shock waves and deep oscillations on lipoedema
