Abigail Strike Massage Therapist

When I first started researching lipoedema for myself, I realised this is exactly what I was looking for, so I am starting a community!

This group is specifically for women in or around Bath who are living with lipoedema. While there is a wealth of information online, nothing compares to connecting in person with others who truly understand this condition.

No matter where you are in your journey, this group offers a safe space for women to share, support, and empathize with one another without judgment.

We will have guest speakers from various fields such as nutrition, local NHS lipoedema nurses, movement, compression suppliers, and so much more BUT most importantly, you will be surrounded by people who truly understand the physical and mental aspects of lipoedema.

If you suspect you have lipoedema or are already diagnosed and want to join our community, please send a direct message.

If you know someone struggling with this condition, please share this with them.

More to follow…

This post has nothing to do with manual lymphatic drainage but many of my clients will know I have been waiting for today and keeping everything crossed for my daughter .

She did it !

Feeling SUPER proud of Holly 👏📸. Off to university she goes. It can be hard listening to others and their opinions on what you should and shouldn’t do, but sometimes you have to go with what feels right for you and for her university feels right.

I’ve got some new followers thought it would be a good to introduce myself. 👋🏻

My adulthood has been spent researching inflammation for myself, it fuelled my passion to raise awareness and help others deal with changes in their bodies or to help manage chronic conditions.

As well as growing up with a chronic condition (lipoedema) I also had to learn and adapt to loosing my hearing. It was hard, but it gave me the ability to read body language. Without being too cheesy, I know this has helped me be the therapist I am today. Many clients don’t even notice I am hard of hearing - technology 🙌🏽

It was frustrating trying to find a treatment that would help with my inflammation. It would feel good but I wanted one that benefited ME.

So I decided to be that therapist that I wanted.

I had a career change and I haven’t looked back. I made sure that I am qualified in methods that will make a difference and create a treatment that I myself wanted.

I trained with the best and in the methods I believe in. And I’ve taken all my skills, knowledge to create my own style - and it’s helping so many of you ☺️.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage has become more popular over the years, we are all realising that without this magnificent internal network working well we aren’t functioning at our best and the affect it has all our other systems is when many clients have a 💡moment. I am certified in a range of treatments but manual lymphatic drainage is the foundation to all my treatments.

I have a HUGE range of clients that come to see me, those that come to see me to help encourage detoxification (we live in a toxic world) those that come to me to be preventative, to manage conditions, to help with pain, to flow better, it’s been described as the missing piece of the jigsaw.

I have a high rebooking rate 🙏, no one is EVER put under pressure to rebook but they see the benefits, they feel the benefits and they know that with every stroke, every move I make is to help.

I have the most WONDERFUL regular clients, we share laughter, tears, knowledge and moments together. ❤️

Making the change from the business world to the body world was hard but I love what I do.

Did you know that I am certified in treating breast oedema?

Breast oedema, often caused by surgery, scars, and post-cancer treatment, can result in swelling, discomfort, and changes in breast shape and size. This condition specifically affects the breasts and surrounding tissue, often due to damage or blockage in the lymphatic system.

Spotting breast oedema involves looking out for symptoms like heaviness or discomfort in the breast area, swelling in the arms, hands, and chest, tightness, restricted shoulder mobility, thickening and hardening of the skin, and changes in how your bra fits.

As a certified professional, I ensure that my clients feel safe and well-informed about their treatment. Through lymphatic system work, scar therapy, deep oscillation, exercises, and home care advice, we work together to address breast oedema and improve your overall well-being. 💕

Thank you Jessica for the Google review, it means the 🌎 to me.

The feeling of having received good lymphatic drainage - if you know you know.

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“This lovely lady is a woman on a mission! I love Abigail’s dedication to helping others find peace and painlessness with their bodies. My treatment was incredible. It felt so intuitively driven, but in a science based way. This is not your average spa-style lymphatic drainage massage. This is drainage in expert hands with someone who is fully registered with MLD UK (the organisation that has the true specialists in this area.
I’ve got so bored with being told how much better I’ll look aesthetically with lymphatic drainage. It’s about SO MUCH more than aesthetics for me, and that’s why I adored Abigail’s approach. This is treatment in the hands of an expert. And yes, my stomach looks flatter, but the things that matter most for me are the less heavy feeling legs, the lack of mental fogginess and the general increased energy.
A mega positive side effect for me - I have quite sore knees (probably from too much exercise!) and the day after my full body drainage treatment, they weren’t sore! I didn’t even mention them, as I thought it was just muscle soreness, but wow, Abigail’s techniques work!
Can’t wait to see her again!! She’s a delight to have working on me.”

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I couldn’t let this week go by without mentioning Monday evening!

I was lucky to be able to attend a charity event to raise funds for Lymphoedema and lymphatic disease research.

An amazing 🌟 line up, Dame Judi Dench, Simon Callow, the absolutely fabulous Joanna Lumley all shouting loudly to raise awareness of the chronic condition lymphoedema. Celebrities have such power of being able to spread awareness.

👉🏼Lymphoedema is when the lymphatic system is failing. There are many reasons why this may happen but the end result is the same - a build up of fluid causing chronic swelling.

Whilst it was amazing to be in a room with these celebrities it was Professor Peter Mortimer who is known worldwide as the foremost expert on the lymphatic system that made my evening. Listening to him talk about how important the lymphatic system is, the relationship between poor lymphatic health impacts fat homeostasis, recurrent infection. He talked about how the lymphatic system is VITAL to our health yet generally not talked about enough within the medical profession because it is invisible to the naked eye.

Through awareness and this charity training is supplied to educate the health professionals and improve future treatments for patients.

We were also joined by William Repecci, president and CEO of Lymphatic Education & Research from the United States he is incredibly motivated to researching lymphatic diseases 🙌🏽

And of course listening and meeting Gemma Levine whose career in photographing the famous was impacted hugely by developing lymphoedema after her cancer treatment. She couldn’t lift a camera 📸, she was the first person to raise funds and raise awareness of this condition .

Of course meeting (at last!) the lovely ladies from and seeing the lady that trained me in one of my manual lymphatic drainage method’s along with clinical expert and Director of Lymph Vision, Jane Wigg 👑

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During my FG-MLD lymphatic drainage training, Jane Wigg (Director and Clinical expert of Lymph Vision) shared the below with us.

“Research indicates that scars have the potential to block lymphatic flow by 50%”

Yesterday I listened to Emma Holly’s webinar on scars and oncology, the topic resurfaced.

When lymphatic flow is hindered or halted, it’s hoped that the system can find alternate routes. However, if this doesn’t happen, it may result in increased inflammation, pain, and the potential development of chronic inflammation - lymphoedema.

It’s important to note that scar tissue isn’t just on the surface; it can extend deep into the layers, causing fibrosis and adhesions that obstruct the flow.

Clients who come to me for lymphatic drainage are familiar with my emphasis on movement and its crucial role in maintaining lymphatic health.

Another bit of research -

“Scar tissue can reduce tissue functionality by at least 20%.”

So even a well healed scar will still be functioning about 20% less after surgery.

When tissue movement is restricted and the lymphatic system is struggling, it’s easy to understand how inflammation, pain, hardness, tissue restriction can escalate.

My certifications in oncology, scar therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and specialised training in breast, abdomen, neck, and ge****ls oedema equip me to address these issues effectively and safely as well as equipping you with home care care.

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I woke up this morning to a heartwarming review in my inbox - thank you!

I have had the privilege of providing bespoke treatments for this client, utilizing a variety of techniques to address her specific needs. From scar therapy to manual lymphatic drainage and soft tissue therapy, I used a combination of methods tailored to her individual requirements.

By incorporating multiple methods of MLD, FG-MLD for breast oedema, and Deep Oscillation followed by soft tissue work to improve range of movement, always working at a pace that my client is happy with.

This is when I pull from all areas of my training such as scar therapy, oncology, manual lymphatic drainage, and sports massage. When these skills are combined, the results are 👌.

I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact through my work.

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Reviews mean the world to me - thank you. There is no incentive offered to clients to leave a review which makes them even more meaningful 💛

This lady is having weekly bespoke treatments using a combination of methods, it’s a joy to be part of her recovery and wellbeing, visually seeing how her body is responding on many levels.

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That’s a lot of people!

It’s lymphoedema awareness week and as you all know lymph is my passion.

So what is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a chronic incurable condition where there is an accumulation of fluid, fibrosis and fat in the tissues as a result of failure of lymphatic drainage.

The KEY is early identification, intervention, prevention which is why raising awareness is crucial!

Who can get it .. ANYONE and at ANY age.

There are two types, primary and secondary, primary is less common and tends to be a genetic problem and secondary is caused by damage to the lymphatic system or the movement of fluid. For example - surgery, cancer, lymph node removal, an infection, inflammation or lack of movement.

There are many therapist offering lymphatic drainage but not many are certified in Lympheodema management and a member of MLDUK 🙋🏼‍♀️.

The good news it can be managed!

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Four gift vouchers en route way to the charity.

Thank you for choosing me 💛

Such a great gift to give - a treatment with a purpose.

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Our lymphatic systems plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy internal environment in our bodies.

Without it we won’t bloom.

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Deep Oscillation® is a highly effective medical device that has been proven to deliver positive results. When it comes to scar therapy treatments, I utilize a combination of deep oscillation, low level laser and pump, manual therapy, and lymphatic drainage techniques. By incorporating these various modalities, I can provide comprehensive and effective treatment for your scar.

I only use the best therapeutic devices available. Deep Oscillation® is widely used in the NHS and leading private therapy clinics, including professional sports clubs and oncology rehabilitation centers.

This device has been trusted to aid in the healthy recovery of patients from a range of surgical procedures and traumatic experiences.

And…. it feels good! It’s delivered through vinyl gloves and you will feel gentle vibrations, as well as being used on new scars it is also great and helping with hardening of fibrotic tissue from mature scars 🙌🏽

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GIVEAWAY !

It’s been such a brilliant start to 2024, being nominated as a Bath Life Finalist, the success of working from the gorgeous and even more good news …. 🥁🥁🥁 I have a NEW clinic opening in central Bath in March!!

Super excited!

I couldn’t have done it with out all your support. Seeing and hearing about how much my treatments benefit you all makes me happy.

February is often referred to as the month of love 💕. While I may not be a fan of Valentine’s Day, I strongly believe in the importance of loving and taking care of our bodies. 💛

Here’s what you win:

✨90 minutes BESPOKE treatment at one of the Bath Clinics.
✨Includes consultation, treatment and post care advice.
✨Treatment choice will depend on your needs (manual lymphatic drainage, brazilian lymphatic drainage, scar therapy, deep oscillation, oncology, soft tissue therapy, sports massage, deep tissue)

Here’s how to enter:

👉🏼 like this post & comment below
👉🏼 tag your friends or anyone you feel would benefit from a treatment, each tag is an entry..
👉🏼 follow .massagetherapist

Entry ends at 23:59 on 26th February 2024.

Good luck

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C-Section surgery involves layers of tissue, skin, fascia, nerves and muscle to be pulled or cut apart for the birth of the baby. A scar is then formed to bind this back together.

My aim is to help women to have a pain free scar, more tissue functionality, feel more confident and to reduce inflammation.

Sammy has been seeing me since August 2023 and her bespoke treatments have consisted of Scar Therapy, Deep Oscillation and Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage.

During these treatments she is shown how to self massage her scar so that she can continue helping herself at home.

Thank you 💛

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MAINTENANCE TREATMENTS

This testimonial is from a lovely client that I have been seeing monthly since the beginning of summer 2023. 💛

Regular clients still have a consultation, how has she been? Has anything changed ? Is there any areas she wants me to focus on ? How is work? Stress? Etc … I then palpate and do my own assessment on what I am seeing and FEELING and 👀 how she is moving. All this information helps me help you.

Then I do my bespoke treatment, for this lady it’s Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage with a little soft tissue therapy but that might change!

Thank you for the review - they mean so much. I just need to get them on google 😵‍💫

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I have been working regularly with this client since July 2023, and watching but more importantly feeling how her body is improving, it is incredibly rewarding.

We use a combination of methods best suited for this client, Deep Oscillation which intensifies the effect of Manual Lymphatic Drainage whilst helping with fibrotic tissue.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage to stimulate the flow of the lymph and to help move fluid, especially in areas where this client has a build up.
Scar Therapy to help create movement and improve skin functionality.
Soft Tissue Therapy working slightly deeper in areas to help prevent any soft tissue dysfunction.

I now give this ladies family treatments, husband, daughter even the dogs have started hinting by laying down on my feet !

Thank you 💛

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Introducing a fresh new look for 2024!

Many of my regular clients often describe my massages as the missing piece of the puzzle, that my massages have a purpose.

I have dedicated myself to extensive training to ensure that I can provide the treatments that I personally sought - treatments that cater to my body's needs.

I am a qualified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage, offering two different types: the popular and beloved Brazilian technique, as well as the FG-MLD method. Additionally, I hold certification in oncology ,scar therapy and lymphoedema management all stemming from my original training in soft tissue at Bath University where I studied at level 4.

What sets me apart? I would like to feel I am your go-to for both maintenance and post-surgery recovery. Each treatment I offer is tailored specifically to enhance the functionality of your lymphatic system and all the benefits this bring, drawing upon my expertise in other specialized areas.

New logo but still me !

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Lymphatic drainage technique helps to stimulate the contraction of lymphatic vessels, promoting the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body.

By increasing lymphatic flow, lymphatic drainage helps to remove toxins, waste products, and pathogens more efficiently. This reduces the burden on the immune system, allowing it to focus on fighting off infections and maintaining overall health. 🙌🏽

Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system and lead to various health issues. Lymphatic drainage can help reduce inflammation by removing excess fluid and reducing swelling. This can help the immune system function more effectively and maintain a balanced inflammatory response.

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This makes me a little emotional 🥹

Thank you for trusting me.

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The lymphatic system is essential for our overall health, and when it becomes compromised, we may start to experience symptoms that indicate it needs support. Factors such as our lifestyle, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, injuries, stress, diet, illnesses, and surgeries can contribute to a sluggish lymphatic system. That's why Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is highly valued!

During this busy time of year, it's important to prioritize self-care and listen to our bodies. Making small changes within our control can greatly assist our lymphatic system in performing its vital functions.

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One question I get asked a lot is can MLD help manage varicose veins …

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, CAN help with varicose veins by improving the circulation and reducing the swelling associated with this condition. Here's how MLD can help:

✨Improved lymphatic flow: MLD involves gentle, rhythmic massage techniques that stimulate the lymphatic system. This helps to improve the flow of lymph fluid, which carries waste products away from the tissues. By enhancing lymphatic flow, MLD can reduce the accumulation of fluid in the affected area and alleviate swelling.

✨Reduced inflammation: Varicose veins often cause inflammation in the affected area. MLD can help to reduce this inflammation by promoting the removal of excess fluid and waste products from the tissues. This can lead to a decrease in pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins.

✨Enhanced blood circulation: MLD can also improve blood circulation in the affected area. By stimulating the lymphatic system, MLD helps to remove waste products and toxins from the tissues, allowing for better oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the cells. Improved blood circulation can help to alleviate symptoms such as heaviness, cramping, and aching associated with varicose veins.

✨Prevention of complications: Varicose veins can lead to complications such as blood clots and ulcers. MLD can help to prevent these complications by improving lymphatic flow and reducing swelling. By maintaining healthy circulation and reducing fluid retention, MLD can contribute to the overall health of the veins and reduce the risk of complications.

It's important to note that MLD should be performed by a trained professional, such as a certified lymphedema therapist 🙋🏼‍♀️. We can tailor the treatment to your specific needs and ensure that it is safe and effective for your condition.

You should seek medical advice should you have any concerns.

Dealing with chronic oedema or being diagnosed with lipeodema and/or lymphedema can be overwhelming. 😔These conditions can have a significant impact on your physical, emotional, and social well-being. However, please know that you are not alone in this 💛

While these conditions are different, they share similarities such as physical discomfort, body image and self-esteem issues, limited mobility, functional impairment, emotional well-being, and social impact.

Managing these conditions requires a comprehensive treatment approach.

I am here to help as a qualified MLD specialist and soft tissue therapist. I will choose the appropriate MLD method based on your diagnoses and symptoms, and if appropriate, incorporate Deep Oscillation therapy. With my knowledge, training, and personal experiences, you can trust that you are in safe hands. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that suits your specific needs and help manage your condition. 💛

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Yesterday, a regular client shared an article from The Times featuring Dr. Gladys McGarey .

Dr. Gladys McGarey is known as the mother of holistic medicine. At the remarkable age of 102, she imparts her wisdom on the secrets to achieving health and happiness.

I believe we could all benefit from adopting a little more of Gladys' perspective. For those interested, the full article can be found 👇🏻, it’s a great read.

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/93a17393-8626-4146-8f60-9c2dc5e3ef69?shareToken=fdfb1181307371b4380f85a505d0f59c

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I had an AMAZING first day at the stunning . It was lovely to be in the same building as my good friend, something we have talked about for years ! Despite being busy with clients all day, we managed to squeeze in a quick catch-up for about 5 minutes 🤣.

Thank you to everyone that came for a treatment and for making my first day just perfect. 💛

More dates to be released soon !

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As many of you know, I am incredibly passionate about lymphatic drainage, as someone who has a chronic inflammation disease I know how much it can affect you both physically and mentally.

As part of my ongoing CPD training, I have dedicated myself to becoming a qualified FG-MLD manual therapist for Lymphedema Management. The amount of knowledge I have gained throughout this training has been truly remarkable.

This method is based on FG- MLD (fluroscopy guided) which shows how this method works in moving the lymph fluid away from the swelling (oedema) site in real time - fascinating to watch!

During the course, I had the pleasure of partnering up with the wonderful Debbie, her warm and friendly smile greeted me on that first day and we worked together throughout the week. It was a joy to collaborate with her 💛

Debbie, who suffers from Lipoedema, mild oedema (Lymphedema), and a vascular dysfunction, allowed me to perform a full leg FG-MLD treatment on her. The results were amazing, I was able to significantly reduce the size of her leg. Not only did her leg appear smaller, but she also reported feeling a noticeable lightness in it.

Fluoroscopy guided manual lymphatic drainage uses specialised massage techniques to help move lymph fluid and reduce the swelling. It is also called the 'Fill and Flush' method.

If you go to a Lymphedema clinic this method of lymphatic drainage is recognised and respected by the NHS.

What I offer
✨Brazilian MLD
✨FG-MLD
✨Deep Oscillation
✨Infrared red laser and red light therapy
✨ Advice and knowledge
✨ Home care advice

I have your lymphatic system covered 🙌🏽

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I’ve gone and done it!

It’s been really full on 😵‍💫 but so worth it !

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Yesterday, I had the privilege of being invited to speak at a cancer support group. It was an incredibly fulfilling experience to be able to help them. 💛

Scars, whether visible on the body or hidden within the mind, can have a profound impact. Being able to provide assistance to these individuals through specialized manual treatments, such as scar work, deep oscillation aimed at addressing scar tissue, fibrosis, adhesions, and changes in tissue health resulting from surgery and radiotherapy, was truly rewarding.

Thank you for inviting me.

🌟APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! 🌟

It’s coming around quickly! I am really looking forward to working from The Town House Clinic in the heart of my hometown - beautiful Bath!

I will be working with ☺️ on the following dates in 2023 and I have some availability left, book them whilst you can !

🗓️ 17th November
🗓️ 29th November
🗓️ 6th December
🗓️ 20th December

DM or use the link in my bio for bookings making sure you click on “Bath The Town House Clinic”

Feel free to share this post as it helps spread the word 💛🙏