The world of cosmetics and body therapy is very broad. Currently there are different methods to achieve smoother skin and less cellulite, even with good results for fat loss. In this case, pressotherapy has become a role model for its supposed benefits.
Lymphatic drainage therapy potentially slims the appearance of the arms and legs by reducing the amount of fluid. They also ensure that they relieve pain and detoxify the body.
How does air pressure therapy work?
Pressotherapy uses an air pressure machine to inflate a suit that tightens the arms, legs, or abdomen in a rhythmic motion, similar to a massage. Most people who undergo this treatment seek to reduce the appearance of cellulite and release fluid from the lymph nodes. This buildup usually appears after surgery or after certain cancer treatments are finished.
Pressotherapy is usually performed in spas or wellness centers that may also offer facials, waxing, or massages. A trained esthetician will perform the procedure. This therapy is similar to a lymphatic drainage massage. However, unlike normal massage performed by hand, pressotherapy is performed by a machine that dispenses the correct amount of pressure each time.
When you arrive at the pressotherapy center, the professionals will accompany you to an armchair or a stretcher. You will not need to remove your clothes for the treatment, although most advise it to feel more liberated. Although you can learn to give yourself a lymphatic drainage massage at home, pressotherapy should always be performed in the consultation of a trained staff.
The beautician will help you to put the garment on the parts of the body where you are going to perform the massage. It will catch your eye that it looks like an astronaut spacesuit, and can be wrapped around the legs, waist, arms, or all at once.
The garment has tubes that are connected to a computerized air pressure machine. The garment will inflate with air and you will feel a tight sensation that should feel like pressure, not pain.
A normal session will last 30 to 45 minutes . Your body may feel lighter afterward, and anecdotally, some people feel like they have to urinate right after they’re done. This could be due to the movement of water in the body. In addition, the treatment can be received up to twice a week, although a professional will advise you individually.
Advantages of pressotherapy
Pressotherapy stimulates the body’s lymphatic system. When working optimally, the lymphatic system carries lymph , a fluid that contains white blood cells to help fight infection. The most significant benefits of this body therapy are the relaxation of the muscles, reduction of cellulite and swelling of the limbs, elimination of toxins and toning of the skin.
Pain is also reduced and possibly a stronger immune system is obtained due to the correct movement of lymph. Proponents of pressotherapy say the treatment strengthens defenses against pathogens and can even help lower blood pressure if you have hypertension. It can even help with digestive problems when the treatment is applied to the abdomen, as it stimulates intestinal transit and alleviates constipation problems.
The effects of pressotherapy will be noticeable after more than one session. But after the first, you will feel a noticeable improvement in your physical shape, especially in terms of the elasticity and flexibility of the skin . Many people claim to have rapid changes in circulatory system disorders and venous problems such as varicose veins, tired legs, and heavy limbs.
If you are thinking about getting in shape and losing weight , this type of treatment may be a complement for you. By combining pressure therapy, diet and exercise, you will notice better results in less time. You can also treat swelling or drain toxins , fats, and fluids that cause cellulite.
Possible side effects
It can be said that this type of massage is considered safe, although there are some side effects that you should be aware of, such as muscle pain if the pressure on the machine is too high and redness or slight irritation where the pressurized garments meet the skin.
In addition, it is not recommended for people suffering from heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, neoplasms in the areas to be treated and pregnant women. Among the side effects of pressotherapy are the hardening of the skin and the possible breakage of the capillaries in the area being treated. Therefore, to avoid this type of situation, it is good to combine pressotherapy with lymphatic drainage, for example. This is a type of massage designed to facilitate the release of stagnant fluids, characterized by an enormous amount of toxins.
It should also be avoided if you recently broke a bone or have osteoporosis or another bone condition. It is best to consult a doctor first to make sure this treatment is not too intense for an injury.
How much does a pressotherapy session cost?
The price of the sessions will vary depending on the place where the treatment is carried out and the duration of the appointment. Generally, it will cost between 40 and 100 euros for a session of 30 to 45 minutes. As this is usually an elective cosmetic procedure, it may not be covered by health insurance. However, if a doctor recommends pressotherapy as a way to help you rehab from surgery, it could be covered.
The specialists assure that to obtain visible and real results it is advisable to make at least 6-7 appointments at your beauty center. Although the ideal is to complete a full cycle of 10 sessions, so find out about packages with courtesy discounts.
In general, it can be established that a complete cycle of pressotherapy is around 500-600 euros. However, the cost of this treatment is justified by the fact that it allows you to relax and recharge during periods of high stress. The feeling of relaxation and well-being is immediate, and the reactivation of circulation is very relaxing and brings new energy to the body.
