Can a Lymphatic Massage Help with Pain Management 4 Years After I Had a Beltectomy?

I had a gastric bypass in 07 and the following year I had a beltectomy overseas. In 2010 my mid section started swelling up .I later had a catscan on my mid section and nothing came up so the Dr. just told me I probably had a low grade ab strain. I went to my gastric bypass Dr a year later and he had a pet scan done and could not find any problems . He explained because of my beltectomy there might be a problem with my lymph-nodes and I might have to deal with the pain for the rest of my life.

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1 Doctor Answer | Asked by chozen

Doctor Answers (1)
Community Comments (3)

Can a Lymphatic Massage Help with Pain Management

I am not sure I understand what your weight loss surgeon had in mind when he suggested lymph nodes as a cause of your pain. Nonetheless, the massage is harmless, and I hope it gives you some relief. Consulting with a pain specialist in your area might be a better approach. Thanks and best wishes.

Comments (3)

Philippa Dodson 19 Feb 2013

I am a Certified Lymph Drainage Therapist. When there is trauma to an area, such as liposuction or any type of abdominal surgery, the lymph flow can become "interrupted". When there is permanent swelling after surgery it is called lymphedma. A series of Lymph Drainage Treatments can redirect the lymph flow through alternate channels to reduce discomfort and swelling. I recommend that you consult a Physical Therapist or Massage Therapist who is experienced in performing Lymph Drainage Therapy. Since this condition is related to your surgery I believe your insurance will probably cover a course of complete decongestive therapy. Check with your closest large hospital to see if they have a Lymphedema Clinic.

chozen 1 Oct 2012

Thank you Dr. for your reply. From what I got from my surgeons explanation was since I was cut in half, my lymph nodes from the bottom of my body were not connecting to the top of my body. I'm not sure If I got that exactly right. He also told me I had a hernia in my mid section but he believed this was not the source of my pain and he would monitor it every 6 month. I have been reading about hernias and the symptoms pretty much match up with what I am feeling. I get inflammation in my mid section almost every day from the least bit of movement . My abs almost always seem in a state of contraction. Is there a specific name for a pain specialist or is that how I should refer to then when I contact my insurance?