KINESIOLOGY THERAPY

Lymphedema Treatment Option

Related Terms: Applied Kinesiology, Classical Kinesiology, Kinesiology Therapy, Kinesiology lymphedema therapy, Ledbed Method

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Definition:

Kinesiology refers to the study of the movement of the human body, and is a multifaceted discipline that is actually a part of the curriculum of many colleges and universities. In the treatment of lymphedema, its focus is on stimulating reflex points in the human body that aid and/or improve circulation and lymph flow. More particularly this involves assessing imbalances in the body through muscle testing.

From this testing, weaknesses in the body function are treated through massage or stimuli of the muscle system. This is often used in conjunction with manual lymphatic drainage massage and compression wraps and garmets.

There is an actual lymphedema therapeutic program called the Lebed Method that incorporates Kinesiology concepts in a exercise and dance regime. "The Lebed Method, Focus on Healing through Movement and Dance, is a therapeutic exercise program for women who have had any kind of breast surgery, node dissection, radiation, chemotherapy, Lymphedema, or who suffer with chronic fatigue." (1)

Opinion:

The lymph system has no inner pump mechanism like the heart does. Lymph flow is stimulated specifically through muscle action that "pushes" the fluid through the lymphatics. This is a non-invasive technique and I have not found anyone who has been injured or has had complications of any kind from Kinesiology treatment.

Participants in the Lebed method all report extremely positive results and the combination of dance and exercise has about revitalization to many. I encourage lymphedema patients to look more closely at this concept and how they might personally benefit from it. Click on the link below for further information on Lebed.

Another lymphedema patient posted that after Kinesiology massage treatment the swelling in her left arm has almost disappeared, although it is still to early to determine the benefit to her lymphedema leg.

In my update of April 19. 2008. I did search in vain to find any clinical studies that might be available for Kinesiology and lymphedema and simply ws unable to find any.

Dec. 26, 2011

Since this page was originally written, Kinesio Taping (Kinesiology) has continued to receive top reviews from patients and therapists alike. Further more, the number of studies showing its possibe use with other medical conditions has skyrocketed. In my home state, of Georgia, the University of Georgia has even opened its own center for Kinesiology. (see below)

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Information About Kinesiology Therapy

What is Kinesiology Therapy?

Kinesiology practitioners believe that each muscle in the body is individually wired into the inherent human energy system. The muscles are seen as a way of examining the state of the bio energy flowing within and around the body, the response of a muscle to a particular form of stimulation can be used to diagnose underlying health problems and give useful guidance in deciding a treatment plan.

An illness is viewed as a manifestation of an underlying disruption of the bodies natural energy flows. Once the Kinesiology practitioner Has determined the underlying location of poor energy flow causing the problem the therapist will correct the problem using a variety of techniques taken from several different holistic disciplines including acupuncture, nutritional therapy, herbology and flower and gem essence therapy - to name a few.

What happens during a Kinesiology session ?

The subject rests in a prone position, with one forearm resting at right angles. The Kinesiology practitioner exerts a light pressure on the arm to ascertain the level resistance that the client's muscle is able to give.

If the muscle becomes relaxed then this is interpreted as a "NO" response. A rigid, strong muscle response strong and rigid, this is interpreted as a "YES" response.
The muscles responses are tested in reaction to a variety of stress causing items. The practitioner can discover what weakens the client's energy system, and more importantly ascertain what strengthens it.

The Kinesiology therapist will pose a series of questions, interpreting the answers each time from the client's muscle-test. This allows the practitioner to identify precisely what is stressing the client's system at that time, and then to perform the energy corrections necessary to relieve that stress. By relieving the stress on the system, the body/mind will be freed to implement its own self-healing mechanisms, and the symptoms will diminish and disappear.

http://www.justbewell.com/information/Kinesiology_therapy.html

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Building research capacity amongst kinesiologists: results from a mixed methods study

Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2008 Feb

Wye L, Digby K.

Academic Unit of Primary Health Care, Community Based Medicine, University of Bristol, Cotham House, Cotham Hill, Bristol, UK. Lesley.wye@bristol.ac.uk

The aim of this initial evaluation was to explore the feasibility of ways to introduce research activities to kinesiologists.

METHODS: After training, six practitioners participated in an audit. They recorded symptom data on new patients attending in November 2005 with follow-up by 28 February 2006. Five therapists were subsequently interviewed about their experiences.

RESULTS: Strategies enhancing therapist participation included targeting and recruiting potential audit enthusiasts amongst the therapist population, using personalized approaches to recruit, train and support therapists, keeping the audit small by working in-depth with a limited number of kinesiologists and helping therapists to "own" the process. A total of 28 patients participated in the audit. The composite MYMOP profile score showed a mean difference of 1.78 (95% CI: 1.28, 2.28).

CONCLUSION: With targeted strategies engaging kinesiologists, and potentially other professional complementary therapists, in research activities is possible.

Elsevier-Science Direct

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A review of the literature in applied and specialised kinesiology.

Forsch Komplement Med (2006). 2008 Feb

Hall S, Lewith G, Brien S, Little P.

Complementary Medicine Research Unit, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK. s.s.Hall@soton.ac.uk

INTRODUCTION: Kinesiology is a diagnostic, therapeutic complementary therapy utilising subtle change in manual muscle testing results to evaluate the body's energetic balance and select healing modalities. Anecdotal evidence suggests kinesiology is helpful, therefore we wished to critically review the literature.

AIMS: (1) To ascertain if diagnostic accuracy including inter-examiner reliability has been established. (2) To review whether there is evidence for its therapeutic effectiveness. (3) To critically assess the quality of relevant studies. Methods: Electronic databases were searched. Diagnostic accuracy studies were analysed and scored for methodological quality and quality of reporting using the quality assessment tool for studies of diagnostic accuracy included in systematic reviews (QUADAS) and the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Studies (STARD). Clinical studies were analysed for methodological quality using the JADAD scale and for quality of reporting using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT).

RESULTS: 22 original relevant studies were identified. Their methodology was poor. Items reported on QUADAS scored 1-11 out of a possible 14, STARD scores were between 6-13 out of 25, JADAD scores were all 0 out of 5 and CONSORT 4-6 out of 22. Consequently, we were unable to answer any of our research questions.

CONCLUSION: There is insufficient evidence for diagnostic accuracy within kinesiology, the validity of muscle response and the effectiveness of kinesiology for any condition.The standards of reporting were low. We recommend a pragmatic study of the effectiveness of kinesiology as the most appropriate initial step to determine whether kinesiology has any clinical value.

Karger

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For further Information:

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American Academy of Kinesiology

http://www.aakpe.org/

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Energy Kinesiology Association - Links

http://www.kinesiology.net/associations.asp

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Kinesiology Connection Australia

http://www.kinesiology.com.au/

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Health Kinesiology UK

http://www.hk4health.co.uk/

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Kinesiology Federation

http://www.kinesiologyfederation.org/

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University of Georgia

Department of Kinesiology

http://www.coe.uga.edu/kinesiology/

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Index of articles for Lymphedema Treatment :

Lymphedema Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=treatment

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Acupuncture Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_acupuncture_treatment.htm

Aqua Therapy for Postsurgical Breast Cancer Arm Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=aqua_therapy_for_postsurgical_breast_cancer_arm_lymphedema

Aqua Therapy in Managing Lower Extremity Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=aqua_therapy_in_managing_lower_extremity_lymphedema

Artificial Lymph Nodes

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=artificial_lymph_nodes

Artificial Lymphatic System

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=artificial_lymphatic_system

Auricular Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=auricular_therapy

Ball Massage technique

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=377

Compression Bandages for Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=compression_bandages_for_lymphedema

Benzopyrones Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_benzopyrones_treatmen.htm

Chi Machine

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_the_chi_machine.htm

Choosing a Rehabilitation Provider or Physical Therapist

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1120

Complex Decongestive Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=manual_lymphatic_drainage_mld_complex_decongestive_therapy_cd

Complications of Lymphedema Debulking Surgery

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=200

Compression Garments Stockings for Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=compression_garments_stockings_for_lymphedema

Compression Pumps for Lymphedema Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=compression_pumps_for_lymphedema_treatment

Coumarin powder/ointment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=768

Craniosacral Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=432

Daflon 500 and Secondary Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=322

Deep Oscillation Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=deep_oscillation_therapy

Diaphragmatic Breathing

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=113

Diuretics are not for lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=diuretics_are_not_for_lymphedema

Endermologie Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_endermologie_therapy.htm

Essential Oils

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=435

Elastin Ampules

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=240

Farrow Wrap

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=farrow_wrap

Flexitouch Device - Initial Observations

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=155

Flexitouch Device for Arm Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=273

Homeopathy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_homeopathy.htm

How to Choose a Lymphedema Therapist

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=how_to_choose_a_lymphedema_therapist

How to be Safe with Complementary and Alternative Medicine

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=66

Infrared Therapy for Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=429

Kinesio Taping (R)

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_kinesio_taping.htm

Kinesiology Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_kinesiology_therapy.htm

Laser Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_laser_treatment.htm

Laser Treatment - Sara's Experience

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_laser_treatment_saras_experience.htm

Light Beam Generator Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_light_beam_generator_therapy.htm

Liposuction Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_liposuction_treatment.htm

Low Level Laser

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=114

Lymph Node Transplant

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=lymph_node_transplant

Lymphatic venous anastomoses

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1099

Lymphedema Treatment Programs Canada

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_treatment_programs_canada.htm

Lymphedema Sleeves

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=lymphedema_sleeves

Lymphedema Surgeries

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_surgeries.htm

Lymphedema Treatments are Poorly Utilized

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_treatments_are_poorly_utilized.htm

Lymphobiology

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_lymphobiology.htm

Lymphocyte injection therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=632

Lymphomyosot

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=306

Magnetic Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_magnetic_therapy.htm

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=manual_lymphatic_drainage_mld_complex_decongestive_therapy_cdt

Mesotherapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=mesotherapy

Microsurgeries

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_microsurgery.htm

Naturopathy: A Critical Appraisal

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=202

Patient self-massage for breast cancer-related lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=patient_self-massage_for_breast_cancer_related_lymphedema

Reflexology Therapy

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_and_reflexology_therapy.htm

Self Massage Therapy – Self MLD

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=227

Short Stretch Bandages

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=short_stretch_bandages_for_lymphedema

Surgeries

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_surgeries.htm

Wholistic Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_wholistic_treatment.htm

Treatment Information for Lymphedema Forum

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=8

Why Compression Pumps cause Complications with Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=327

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Join us as we work for lymphedema patients everywehere:

Advocates for Lymphedema

Dedicated to be an advocacy group for lymphedema patients. Working towards education, legal reform, changing insurance practices, promoting research, reaching for a cure.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AdvocatesforLymphedema/

Subscribe:

AdvocatesforLymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Pat O'Connor

Lymphedema People / Advocates for Lymphedema

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For information about Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=lymphedema\

For Information about Lymphedema Complications

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=complications_of_lymphedema

For Lymphedema Personal Stories

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=3

For information about How to Treat a Lymphedema Wound

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=how_to_treat_a_lymphedema_wound

For information about Lymphedema Treatment

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=treatment

For information about Exercises for Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=exercises_for_lymphedema

For information on Infections Associated with Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=infections_associated_with_lymphedema

For information on Lymphedema in Children

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=lymphedema_in_children

Lymphedema Glossary

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=glossary:listing

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Lymphedema People - Support Groups

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Children with Lymphedema

The time has come for families, parents, caregivers to have a support group of their own. Support group for parents, families and caregivers of chilren with lymphedema. Sharing information on coping, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Sponsored by Lymphedema People.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithlymphedema/

Subscribe: childrenwithlymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

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Lipedema Lipodema Lipoedema

No matter how you spell it, this is another very little understood and totally frustrating conditions out there. This will be a support group for those suffering with lipedema/lipodema. A place for information, sharing experiences, exploring treatment options and coping.

Come join, be a part of the family!

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/lipedema_lipodema_lipoedema/?yguid=209645515

Subscribe: lipedema_lipodema_lipoedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

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MEN WITH LYMPHEDEMA

If you are a man with lymphedema; a man with a loved one with lymphedema who you are trying to help and understand come join us and discover what it is to be the master instead of the sufferer of lymphedema.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/menwithlymphedema/

Subscribe: menwithlymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

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All About Lymphangiectasia

Support group for parents, patients, children who suffer from all forms of lymphangiectasia. This condition is caused by dilation of the lymphatics. It can affect the intestinal tract, lungs and other critical body areas.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/allaboutlymphangiectasia/

Subscribe: allaboutlymphangiectasia-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

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Lymphatic Disorders Support Group @ Yahoo Groups

While we have a number of support groups for lymphedema... there is nothing out there for other lymphatic disorders. Because we have one of the most comprehensive information sites on all lymphatic disorders, I thought perhaps, it is time that one be offered.

DISCRIPTION

Information and support for rare and unusual disorders affecting the lymph system. Includes lymphangiomas, lymphatic malformations, telangiectasia, hennekam's syndrome, distichiasis, Figueroa
syndrome, ptosis syndrome, plus many more. Extensive database of information available through sister site Lymphedema People.

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/lymphaticdisorders/

Subscribe: lymphaticdisorders-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

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Lymphedema People New Wiki Pages

Have you seen our new “Wiki” pages yet? Listed below are just a sample of the more than 140 pages now listed in our Wiki section. We are also working on hundred more. Come and take a stroll!

Lymphedema Glossary

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=glossary:listing

Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=lymphedema

Arm Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=arm_lymphedema

Leg Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=leg_lymphedema

Acute Lymphedema

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=acute_lymphedema

The Lymphedema Diet

http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=the_lymphedema_diet