Hi Jean,
Wow, thanks for putting all this down so clearly! When did you post it on Lactnet? I want to go back and read all the posts I missed.
I have recently run across another technique in Sheila Humphrey's Nursing Mother's Herbal, which is a FANTASTIC treatment adjunct to RPS for edema. I don't have her book with me right now, but I think she calls it something like "lymphatic drainage breast massage." Lots of us do breast massage and encourage moms to do it, especially while breasts are engorged. In my hospital we always did massage from the outer breast DOWN towards the nipple/areola.
Sheila wisely points out that the lymphatic drainage for the breast is in the armpit. This means we need to massage the breast UPWARDS and outwards, towards the armpit, to mobilize lymphatic fluid. I've had amazing success with this technique on very congested breasts, in the following order:
1. Mom lies on her back in bed. Apply moist heat for 5-10 minutes.
2. Have her lift her arm above her head and let it rest on her pillow. Do lymphatic massage as described above.
3. Now do RPS
4. Pump, or bring baby to breast.
The pumping moms get SO much more milk out after this treatment, it's amazing. I've started calling it the "Breast Spa Treatment," and the nurses are all asking me to show them how to do it.
OXO
Martha Johnson RN IBCLC
SHMC Lactation Service
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