Answering a few questions about body treatment after injuries.
By Valerie Briggs
I want to pause and answer a few questions that many people have asked me about their bodies after a lymphatic massage, treatment for pulled muscles, pain, or other treatment you may have had.
I pledge to always try my best and find you the right answer for your own situation.
“What if my swelling feels worse at first?”
That can happen, and it doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.
Bodies respond to change in different ways. New awareness, gentle touch, or shifts in routine can temporarily increase discomfort.
Swelling happens because white blood cells come to the area to ‘fix’ the broken cells, remove pathogens, repair, restore function. The white blood cells stick around a while to get the job done. This may be the beginning of inflammation, which is a good thing post-injury because it can repair. Inflammation and swelling are problematic when the white blood cells stick around longer than needed.
Your inflammation and swelling might need a bit of external support to internally resolve. The external support of using modalities, hands, heat, vibration, etc. are some ways I use to help your inflammation and swelling subside.
What matters most is how it feels overall:
• Is there softness later in the day or week?
• Is there less tightness/pain after rest?
• Does your body feel calmer overall?
Thanks for reading Sunflowerlymph Blog: Subscribe for free to support my work 💗
“How do I know if this is working?”
Progress here is often subtle before it’s obvious. It is the effect of immediate gratification that we seek. Restoration and change takes time. How much time depends on the situation and treatments.
Signs people notice first include:
• less heaviness/pain
• skin/muscle feeling more comfortable
• easier movement
• feeling more confident and having a plan
“What if I miss a day or forget to work on the home exercises?
Nothing bad happens, you just pick up where you left off.
Consistency is helpful, but perfection is not required. We are all human.
Missing a day doesn’t undo anything.
You simply return when you can.
This work is meant to fit into real life, not compete with it.
“Am I doing something wrong if it feels very gentle?”
No, gentle is intentional. Consistent is key.
The systems we’re supporting respond best to light, calm input. More pressure or intensity does not equal better results here.
If it feels safe, grounding, or even boring, you’re likely on the right track. Little habits add up to the big picture.
You remain the decision-maker for your body, and your healthcare team remains important.
If you’re ever unsure, overwhelmed, or simply need reassurance, slow down. I still remind myself to slow down after 18 years.
Check out these Meditations to slow down and calm your body.
Be notified of new research, ongoing FREE education, and community events.
