Healing Kneads Massage, specializes in Manual Lymphatic Drainage to ease swelling and stimulate the lymphatic system
By Patricia Nugent
A few months ago, we introduced you to Massage Therapist Kris Sydorenko, owner of the Healing Kneads Massage studio, a specially outfitted spa suite on the terrace level of her Medina home.
She specializes in a wide variety of massage styles within an ultra-soothing environment…candles, aromatherapy scents you can choose, meditative music, fluffy white linens, a heated massage table, a glowing fireplace and even a ceiling with celestial sparkles.
This month we decided to focus on one of her more popular massages: Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). It eases swelling by stimulating the lymphatic system, which is a network of tissues that help rid the body of toxins and cellular waste, while at the same time transporting lymph fluid, which contains infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.
Detoxifying, Decreasing Swelling
“Lymph fluid flows throughout every part of the body,” says Kris. “Sometimes it gets clogged and needs help reflowing as it should.”
The lymphatic system does not have its own “pump” like circulation has the heart, she explains. It relies on movement of the muscles to activate the collection and movement of lymph. An average person has 600-800 lymph nodes, which act as clearing stations to move the lymph fluid.
MLD is a targeted, light circular massage technique that helps drain swelling and inflammation to detoxify the body.
“Many of my clients suffer from edema after surgeries, or conditions where their lymph nodes are removed,” she says. “MLD is just gaining traction in this country as a necessity for post-operative patients. I just had a client who came to me from having back surgery in Europe and his surgeon prescribed lymph drainage to help with swelling and detoxification. After you’ve had anesthesia and heavy medications, you need to work those out of your body’s tissues.”
She says MLD is also great for people who do not have sufficient oxygen flow, or chronic venous insufficiency, as well as peripheral artery disease, fibromyalgia, insomnia, lymphedema and headaches.
“Doctors are just starting to recommend it as a means of reducing traumatic built-up swelling for people who have experienced concussions,” she says.
And since this technique is a very light touch, and is said to stimulate the immune system, it’s excellent for cancer patients.
An Individualized Massage Experience
With decades of training and experience, Kris is adept at tailoring a service with the best benefits to each client.
“This time of year, my migraine massages are very popular,” she explains. “They are great to alleviate migraines and stress headaches and help drain sinuses. I combine MLD with Swedish and cranial sacral techniques.”
In addition to therapeutic massage services, she offers a host of services, such as Swedish relaxation massage, hot stone massage and oncology massage geared to help ease the pain, anxiety and nausea that come with cancer treatment.
“Most of my clients are regulars,” says Kris. “They see massage as a means of healing and keeping their body healthy and in balance. Most people come twice a month.”
She notes the benefits extend beyond a feeling of extreme relaxation, and studies have shown regular massage improves circulation, reduces stress, strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure and enhances energy.
Healing Kneads Massage is located within Kris’ lovely home, on Paradise Road in Medina. Services are by appointment only. Hours are Mondays through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 330-416-0546 or visit HKMassage.net for more information or to buy gift certificates.