If your BP is controlled with meds, then MLD should not be a contraindication. I wonder if the therapist who declined treatment was not sufficiently qualified? As you say, it is a grey area. I have treated people over the years who were unaware that they had hypertension until a routine blood pressure check picked it up.
Yes they were well qualified but it was explained to me that masseurs tend to err on the side of caution with HBP in the absence of studies/trials confirming its safety to use with massage. Now I know that the risk factor lies more with those who have had a heart problems like heart failure (which I am clear of) or not receiving medication to control their BP, it would seem that MLD would not prove damaging. (I take a drug to control my BP)
Indeed, it just occurred to me that what I am doing is probably far worse than MLD. I am using an electric massager on my lymph node areas and have only recently thought of starting it on a slower setting rather than a fast one! The heaviness in my legs has lessened and proneness to oedema subsided. I have now asked the nurse about using this massager, i.e. if it is safe (the manufacturing leaflet does not warn against use with HBP).
If you have been using it consistently, and had no ill effects (or felt ill!) then it should be OK.
If you have been using it consistently, and had no ill effects (or felt ill!) then it should be OK.
Well I only purchased it recently and am noticing the benefits more than the drawbacks (the latter being that it zonks me out for a bit ... taking an armchair nap - guess getting rid of stored toxins).
Since this is a thread on blood pressure, I made some discoveries on it today re. monitoring high blood pressure.
I usually have mine checked around midday at the clinic. I have only just realised that this is BEFORE I take my daily blood pressure medication (since I have it with food) and so this could well be a reason for why it is registering high! I only realised the significance today when the nurse asked me when I took the medication (so as to gauge what time to make the next appointment!)
Also there are 2 kinds of devices to take a blood pressure reading - the band that they put around your arm and pump up and the machine that you sit next to and insert your arm into a little tunnel. Now, I don't know if this is the case generally but, at my clinic, the machine was NOT found to be reliable, i.e. giving higher readings than usual! This was first mentioned by a member of staff and confirmed today by the nurse! So, if anyone has more knowledge on this contraption, please reply. Meanwhile, it is something for others to bear in mind when having their blood pressure taken.