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March 27, 2007

Keep It Clean

I remember years ago when I took my first lymph drainage class, the instructor talked about the importance of keeping our clinic clean. This was especially important for folks with a severe form of lymphedema sometimes called elephantitis, where the leg is so congested that the skin of the lower leg and ankle actually touches the floor. The concern with these patients is that sores could develop at those sites which would weep lymphatic fluid. So, our instructors suggestion was to avoid having carpeting in our clinic.

As a massage therapist, I have seen no cases where it was necessary to heed this advice. We are taught that one of the things our clients are looking for is a calm, inviting environment. A space lacking of carpet would make a massage room clinical rather than warm. However, there are instances where my instructors advice was warranted.

It was her advice that I was thinking about last week as I crawled around my clinic floor on my hands and knees sniffing for the source of a pervasive odor. I see a variety of people in my practice with varying ages and afflictions, so oftentimes, things come up that I had not planned for. In this case, it was incontinence that had me spot-cleaning the carpet in my practice room.

How do other therapists keep their practice room hygienic under such circumstances? I'd be interested in hearing your advice and ideas.

tags: massage lymphedema massagetherapy wellness massage therapy bodywork health

Posted by linda at March 27, 2007 11:40 AM