Complementary Therapies By Greta

Complementary Therapies By Greta Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Complementary Therapies By Greta, Massage Therapist, 11180 State Bridge Road, Ste. 502, Alpharetta, GA.

Licensed Massage Therapist- Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Lymphatic Drainage, postoperative lymphatic drainage , Medical massage, Oncologoy massage, Thai massage practitioner and Reiki master

Facial and neck swelling after radiation treatmentRadiation therapy can be life-saving, but it may also affect the lymph...
08/17/2026

Facial and neck swelling after radiation treatment
Radiation therapy can be life-saving, but it may also affect the lymphatic pathways of the face and neck. When lymph fluid can’t move freely, swelling often follows. Fluid can accumulate and lead to secondary lymphedema.

Head and neck lymphedema may develop gradually after cancer treatment. Early signs can include:

• Facial or neck swelling
• A feeling of heaviness or fullness
• Tightness of the skin or tissues
• Changes in facial contours
• Difficulty with neck or facial movement
• Tissue firmness or fibrosis as the condition progresses

Early assessment and treatment matter. Early intervention can help manage edema, maintain tissue mobility, reduce the risk of progressive fibrosis, and support functional movement and quality of life.

At Complementary Therapies, we provide specialized Advanced Lymphedema Therapy for individuals experiencing head and neck swelling following cancer treatment. Treatment may incorporate Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), specialized lymphatic techniques, fibrosis management, scar tissue treatment, and individualized home-care education based on the patient’s clinical needs.

If you notice new or persistent facial or neck swelling after radiation, surgery, or other head and neck cancer treatments, don’t ignore the changes. Speak with your oncology or medical team and request an evaluation by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). Early recognition can make a meaningful difference.

SideEffects

Head & Neck Cancer Treatment: The Post-Care Side Effects Finishing head and neck cancer treatment is a massive milestone...
08/12/2026

Head & Neck Cancer Treatment: The Post-Care Side Effects
Finishing head and neck cancer treatment is a massive milestone—but for up to 75% of survivors, the journey continues as secondary side effects emerge. From head and neck lymphedema to localized muscle scarring, radiation and surgery leave lasting structural footprints.
These oncology treatment side effects extend far beyond simple surface puffiness. Internal swelling can make swallowing painful or difficult, while tissue fibrosis around the jaw joint can physically restrict how wide you can open your mouth (a condition known as trismus). Damage to nearby salivary glands can also leave you dealing with a chronic dry mouth, impacting both your taste buds and dental health.
Living with these changes can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate them alone. Specialized speech therapy, physical therapy, and certified lymphedema care are highly effective at restoring jaw mobility, improving swallowing safety, and draining stubborn fluid.
Learn more at https://complementarytherapies.us/

Understanding Head and Neck Cancer Side Effects and Recovery Recovering from head and neck cancer treatment is a journey...
08/07/2026

Understanding Head and Neck Cancer Side Effects and Recovery

Recovering from head and neck cancer treatment is a journey that requires time, patience, and multidisciplinary care. Because treatments like surgery and radiation target areas critical for breathing, speaking, and eating, side effects can be temporary, long-lasting, or permanent.

Common Side Effects to Be Aware Of:

Mouth and Saliva Changes: Treatments can cause oral mucositis (painful sores or ulcers), dry mouth, and thick or sticky saliva, which can make eating and speaking challenging.

Physical & Appearance Changes: It is common to experience weight loss or notice changes due to surgical scars, skin texture alterations from radiation, or localized swelling.

Lymphoedema: Damage to the lymph nodes from surgery or radiation can result in fluid buildup and swelling in the face and neck area.

Stiff Neck and Jaw: Reduced flexibility in the jaw and neck muscles can impact daily comfort, movement, and oral functions.

Navigating Recovery and Support:

Multidisciplinary Care: Recovery often involves ongoing support from a specialized team—including speech pathologists, dietitians, physiotherapists, and lymphedema therapists.

Emotional Well-Being: Adjusting to physical changes takes time. Don't hesitate to lean on support networks, peer groups, or professionals if you experience anxiety or sadness.

Always consult your medical team or specialist regarding personalized recovery plans and post-treatment care.

Learn more at https://complementarytherapies.us/

Air Travel and Lymphedema: What You Need to Know Planning a trip? If you are at risk for or managing lymphedema, traveli...
08/04/2026

Air Travel and Lymphedema: What You Need to Know
Planning a trip? If you are at risk for or managing lymphedema, traveling can feel a bit overwhelming, but with the right precautions, you can travel safely and with peace of mind!

Here are key guidelines based on official trusted resources like OncoLink:

Understanding the Travel Impact: While traveling itself can be stressful due to weather changes, physical exertion, or air pressure shifts, recent studies suggest that flying does not necessarily cause problems for everyone, provided proper care is taken.

Smart Air Travel Recommendations:

Episodic Swelling: If you experience episodic swelling, it is recommended to wear a compression sleeve or stocking during airplane flights or when increasing altitude above 8,000 feet.

Chronic Lymphedema: For chronic lymphedema, applying compression bandaging before air travel—and keeping it on for 1 to 2 hours after reaching your destination—is recommended, or wearing a properly fitted compression garment. Always use a gauntlet or glove with a sleeve to prevent hand swelling.

General Travel Safety Tips:

Stay Active: If traveling long distances, get up and move around frequently, and perform simple seated stretches.

Manage Luggage: Travel as light as possible, use wheeled suitcases, and don't hesitate to ask for help with your bags.

Protect Your Skin: Bring hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and a backup prescription for antibiotics just in case. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Always consult your healthcare provider or certified lymphedema therapist before your trip to get personalized recommendations.

Learn more at https://complementarytherapies.us/

Face & Neck Lymphedema: What You Need to Know Many survivors of head and neck cancers are caught off guard by a specific...
07/28/2026

Face & Neck Lymphedema: What You Need to Know
Many survivors of head and neck cancers are caught off guard by a specific side effect: face and neck lymphedema. While we often hear about swelling in the limbs, the delicate tissues of the face and throat are just as vulnerable.

What is Lymphedema?

It is a buildup of protein-rich fluid in the body's tissues that happens when the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged.

Over half of all head and neck cancer patients experience some level of swelling.

It commonly develops 2 to 6 months after cancer treatment, resulting in a heavy, tight, or "doughy" feeling in the jaw, chin, or neck.

In some cases, internal swelling can make it difficult to swallow, speak, or breathe comfortably.

The Treatment Standard:

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD): Specialized, gentle skin-stretching massage designed to redirect fluid.

Compression Therapy: Specialized fabric masks or wraps worn to prevent fluid pooling.

Targeted Exercises: Specific head, neck, and jaw movements to stimulate natural drainage.

What to Do Next:

Chronic lymphedema does not improve on its own and requires proactive care.

Early management helps prevent permanent tissue hardening and infections.

If you notice a tight, full feeling months or even years after treatment, do not ignore it; ask your oncologist for a referral to a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).

Learn more at https://complementarytherapies.us/

The Benefits of Prenatal Massage Expectant mothers undergo incredible physical and emotional changes. Incorporating spec...
07/22/2026

The Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Expectant mothers undergo incredible physical and emotional changes. Incorporating specialized care like prenatal massage into your wellness routine offers wonderful support during this special stage.

Key benefits include the following:

Stress Relief: Helps reduce anxiety and promotes a deep sense of calm.

Reduced Swelling: Encourages healthy circulation and helps reduce water retention in the limbs.

Improved Sleep: Promotes deeper, more restful sleep by easing physical discomforts.

Pain Relief: Eases common discomforts such as lower back pain, hip pain, and muscle tension.

Relaxation & Well-Being: Supports overall wellness for both you and your growing baby.

Safe, gentle, and supportive care designed specifically for expecting mothers, always performed by a trained prenatal massage specialist.

Visit us at https://complementarytherapies.us/ to learn more!

Understanding the Power of Your Lymphatic System Did you know that your lymphatic system is your body’s silent protector...
07/20/2026

Understanding the Power of Your Lymphatic System

Did you know that your lymphatic system is your body’s silent protector? Unlike the cardiovascular system, which has the heart as a pump, the lymphatic system relies on your movement, breathing, and muscle contractions to circulate lymph, a fluid essential for immune defense.

Why is it so important?

Immune Defense: It acts as a primary drainage network that filters out bacteria, viruses, and waste through lymph nodes.

Fluid Balance: It prevents swelling by maintaining the right fluid balance in your tissues.

Natural Detours: As shown in the diagram, your body is incredibly resilient. It has "collateral pathways" that act as vital detours if a primary route is ever blocked or damaged.

How can you support it? Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system can be improved through movement, proper hydration, and professional lymphatic drainage therapy when needed.

Want to learn more about how complementary therapies can support your body’s natural drainage?

Visit us at: https://complementarytherapies.us/

¿Headache? It might be your NECK! Did you know that your headaches might not be starting in your head at all?Many people...
07/15/2026

¿Headache? It might be your NECK!

Did you know that your headaches might not be starting in your head at all?

Many people suffer from chronic headaches or migraines, but the root cause is often hidden in a neck muscle called the sternocleidomastoid (SCM). When this muscle develops "trigger points" (knots of tension), it can send pain to other parts of your head and face. This is known as referred pain.

Common symptoms linked to SCM trigger points include:

Pain behind the eyes, in the forehead, or at the temples.

Jaw and tooth pain that mimics TMJ issues.

Ear pain, dizziness, or even nasal congestion.

What causes these trigger points?

Poor posture (especially "text neck" from phone/computer use).

High levels of stress.

Teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

Treatments to try:

Treatments like Medical massage, Neuromuscular technique, Craniosacral therapy, Lymphatic drainage for the face and neck, and even a deep tissue massage for the back, neck, and shoulders can make a world of difference.

Learn more at: https://complementarytherapies.us/

Growth never stops when your patients deserve the very best.I'm honored to have completed my Advanced Lymphedema Managem...
07/13/2026

Growth never stops when your patients deserve the very best.

I'm honored to have completed my Advanced Lymphedema Management training, achieving the highest level of credentialing as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist CLT-ALM. This advanced training strengthens my ability to provide the most current, evidence-based care for individuals living with lymphedema, lipedema, post-surgical swelling, fibrosis, and complex lymphatic conditions.

It was a privilege to learn alongside a small group of highly experienced professionals—including speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists—and the only one to proudly represent the massage therapy profession.

Every advanced certification is an investment in my patients, ensuring they receive the highest standard of compassionate, specialized care.

Thank you to everyone who continues to trust me with your healing journey. 💙

TKA Recovery: Why Managing Swelling is Key A Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a significant procedure, and recovery is a...
06/24/2026

TKA Recovery: Why Managing Swelling is Key
A Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a significant procedure, and recovery is a journey. Did you know that approximately 1 in 10 patients returns to the emergency department within 90 days of their joint surgery, most commonly due to pain and swelling?
The Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in Your Recovery
Managing post-surgical swelling is about more than just comfort—it is a critical part of clinical healing. MLD plays a vital role by actively moving fluid and protein away from the surgical site.
Reduces Edema: By preventing fluid stagnation, MLD helps significantly reduce post-operative swelling.
Decreases Pain: A reduction in swelling leads to a direct decrease in pain levels, allowing for better mobility.
Supports Tissue Healing: By maintaining healthy fluid movement, MLD supports optimal tissue healing and minimizes the risk of long-term complications.
If you are planning for or recovering from a knee replacement, that feels tight and painful while in PT, you should incorporate specialized lymphatic care to help speed healing. A Certified Lymphedema Therapist is the best professional to include in your recovery plan.
[https://complementarytherapies.us/]

Address

11180 State Bridge Road, Ste. 502
Alpharetta, GA
30022

Opening Hours

Monday 9:15am - 3:30pm
Tuesday 9:15am - 3:30pm
Wednesday 9:15am - 3:30pm
Thursday 9:15am - 3:30pm
Friday 9:15am - 3:30pm

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