Motor Vehicle Accident Massage

About Motor Vehicle Accident Recovery Massage:

What is Car Accident Massage?

This massage is meant to help you heal from your injuries after a car accident and bring you out of fight or flight.

What Does Your Lymphatic System Do After A Car Accident?

After a car accident you have localized and systematic inflammation and swelling in your body, sometimes with bruising. Manual lymphatic drainage moves inflammation and swelling out of your body. This helps with range of motion and eases pain. Generally, healing is accelerated as well. Increased blood flow can help clear bruising and increase circulation. Lymphatic massages also regulate your nervous system and can be really relaxing. Car accidents can be traumatic, so it is important to address your physical and mental needs after.

Who Would This Be Good For?

Commonly Used for:

People experiencing pain, whiplash, headaches or injuries following a car accident
People who do not like deep tissue massage
People who are too tender for deeper work but would like to start addressing their injuries in a gentle, supportive way while regulating their nervous system.
People experiencing swelling and inflammation following an accident
People who like cupping as a complimentary modality
Anyone experiencing concussion symptoms like headaches
You! If you want it. Some people just see me, others use it as a compliment to other services.

Is Massage Covered By My Car Insurance After An Accident?

Yes! In many states, like Oregon, car insurance is legally required to pay for any necessary medical care, like massage, following an accident. It does not matter if you are at fault.

You will need the insurance name, a claim number and a prescription for massage from a doctor. If you do not have a doctor I recommend seeing the wonderful folks at Asha Wellness for chiropractic and acupuncture care. They can do a full evaluation of your injuries and provide any referrals you may need to massage, imaging or physical therapy. They can be reached by calling 503-719-5000

Can We Do Other Modalities?

For sure! I love using cupping to get into deeper muscles and provide relief. I also am trained in craniosacral, neuromuscular and more. If you start with lymphatic massage but reach a point where you want to move to deep tissue, I have many amazing colleagues I can refer you to as well.

Does Lymphatic Drainage Work?

Yes! Check out our massage reviews to see what clients have to say about our Portland lymphatic drainage massage services

What To Expect During A MVA Recovery Massage

Car accident recovery massage is done on a massage table with any bolsters you may need to be comfortable. Generally sessions are 60 minutes. The sessions includes an intake and space to check in on your healing. Manual lymphatic drainage, cupping massage, cranioscral and neuromuscular are the main modalities I use to get results, bringing you from pain to resolution. I will take care of all of the charting and billing for you, along communicate with your care team if you would like.

After a car accident chronic issues from whiplash can disrupt your life. Massage can help relieve whiplash and other injuries, reduce pain and get you back to feeling your best.

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Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Post Op Massage

Do I Tip?

I price my services for what I need to make. Tipping is not necessary or expected. If you would like to show gratitude I always appreciate a referral or good review.
What types of payment do you take?

I take Cash, Venmo and Cards.
Does cupping hurt?

Cupping should not hurt. You may get the "that feels so satisfying" type massage feeling from it though.
What does cupping do?

Cupping is meant to increase blood flow to an area and release fascia. My goal is to relieve muscle tension and provide pain relief.
What is the aftercare for cupping?

I use cups without the intention of creating long lasting marks, usually leaving them on a shorter time than you might be used to if you have had them during acupuncture. Sometimes redness or marks can linger depending on your reaction. That usually goes away within a few days. Drinking water and rest is important after cupping and will help you feel your best.
I need care now. You are booked out. What do I do?

Email me at Dani@PDXLymphatics.com I may have a few spots saved for acute situations or can give you a referral to one of my amazing colleagues.
What choose me?

Feeling othered by a provider when you are dealing with the aftermath of an accident, after surgery or when you are not feeling your best can mean avoiding care. This can lead to chronic issues or pain flares. As someone with chronic illness I know how important and life changing receiving compassionate inclusive care is. I strive to create a space where folks feel seen, understood and don't have to explain their bodies outside of where the pain is. I work out of a queer and fat affirming health clinic called Asha Wellness.
It's my first massage, what should I expect?

Your first massage can be anxiety inducing! On my services page you will see a breakdown of what to expect during a massage. I always include time for an intake where we can talk about the massage and any questions you have. Massage is weird and I love taking the time to help you feel prepared and stress free before the massage starts so when you do get on the table you can fully enjoy it.
Why get massage after a car accident?

Getting massage after a car accident can help prevent small injuries and pain from turning chronic. When healing from larger injuries due to a motor vehicle accident, massage can be a great tool in helping bring down inflammation, heal whiplash, support rehabilitation and ease pain. I love helping Portland recover. If you were in a car accident (or bike hit by a car) in the state of Oregon you can see a massage therapist with no out of pocket costs! Even if the accident was your fault! Under Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, you are entitled to up to 15,000$ worth of healthcare for up to two years after the crash for your injuries.
I was just in a small car accident without much damage, should I even get massage?

The size or damage of the car accident does not always indicate your level of injuries. Its always good to get checked out by your primary or a chiropractor. Sometimes it can take a few weeks for soreness or pain to set in from whiplash. Being proactive about care can save you a lot of pain down the line.
What information do I need to bill car insurance?

1. You will need a prescription for massage. If you do not have one, contact your primary care doctor or chiropractor for a prescription for massage. I recommend asking for 12 one hour sessions and scheduling 1-2 a week. If you do not have a doctor or chiropractor, I recommend calling Asha Wellness at 503-719-5000 for an appointment with a Chiropractor. 2. You will need: The name of the auto insurance you are billing to The incident claim number The adjusters name and their phone number for me to bill. You can get all of this when you call your insurance to report the accident.
Do I tip?

I price my services for what I need to make. Tipping is not necessary or expected. If you would like to show gratitude I always appreciate a referral or good review.
Who shouldn't receive MLD?

If you have an acute infection like cellulitis. A history of blood clots or are predisposed to DVTs. Untreated congestive heart failure or kidney failure. Any issues with fluid retention should be cautioned
Why get post surgery manual lymphatic drainage and massage?

Massage after surgery, especially plastic surgery, is a common practice that is growing in popularity. It helps reduce swelling, prevent/treat fibrosis and help scar tissue settle. Generally people get better results, less pain and faster healing time. If you are already experiencing fibrosis we can generally work on the area to reduce or eliminate it. There are many people claiming they do post-op massage or lymphatic drainage. If they are not licensed and certified in lymphatic drainage, they can harm you. No one should be cutting open your incisions or causing you intense pain during your post-op massage.
I need care now but you are booked. What do I do?

Email me at Dani@PDXLymphatics.com I generally have a few spots saved for acute situations or can give you a referral to one of my amazing colleagues.
Do I need my doctor/surgeons clearance?

Manual lymphatic drainage does not need to be cleared by a doctor, but it is always a good idea to ask if you are a suitable candidate. Things that may be dangerous for you to receive it include DVT, history of blood clots, heart failure and kidney failure.
Do you do shorter sessions so I can test how I will react?

I offer 30 minute sessions if you are worried that manual lymphatic drainage may flare your chronic illness. These cannot be booked online, you must call or email.
What types of payment do you take?

I take Cash, Venmo and Cards.
Do I tip?

I price my services for what I need to make. Tipping is not necessary or expected. If you would like to show gratitude I always appreciate a referral or good review.
What insurnace do you accept?

Currently I take BCBS and car accidents, otherwise known as personal injury protection.
How do I know if my insurnace will cover massage?

Calling your insurance and asking is the easiest way. The phone number is on the back of your insurance card usually. Ask if massage is covered, how many a year, if you have a co-pay and where you are at in your deductible. If you are interested in Chiropractic or Acupuncture, ask about that too.
What is your training/licensing for lymphatic drainage?

I am licensed under the Oregon Board Of Massage as a massage therapist and attended an 800 hour massage program at East West College of the Healing Arts. I recieved my certification in Manual Lymphatic Drainage from Klose Training in the Vodder method. I have taken over 200 hours of continueing education and monthly take new classes in order to provide the best and most up to date care. I am also a certified nurse aid (retired) with training in both sub-acute and acute level care and worked in both hospitals and long term care facilities. I work out of Asha Wellness, a licensed business and healthcare facility.
What are common surgeries you work with?

Top Surgery Liposuction/ Lipo 360 Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) Cool Sculpting Breast Implants or Augmentation Fat Transfer Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Body Lift Face Lift Rhinoplasty Swelling From Injections, Etc. Cancer recovery C-Section Joint Replacements Spinal Surgery Facial Reconstruction Nerve Related Surgery Hernia Repair
Do you drain incisions after surgery?

I do not. There is so many different versions of post-op massage on the internet, it can make it confusing on what you should be getting. After surgery the only people doing anything to your incisions are licensed medical professionals in wound care, like the surgeons or nurses employed by them. Pushing fluid out of incisions is not the same thing as lymphatic drainage and can lead to many complications including fibrosis and more swelling.
It is my first ever massage, what should I expect?

Your first massage can be anxiety inducing! On the services page you will see a breakdown of what to expect during a massage. I always include time for an intake where we can talk about the massage and any questions you have. Massage is weird and I love taking the time to help you feel prepared and stress free before the massage starts so when you do get on the table you can fully enjoy it.
Should I book my Post-Op Massage prior to my surgery?

I recommend booking your massages prior to your surgery, it means you will get the time and amount you desire. I offer email and phone consults to help you plan and make sure I am the best fit. Contact me once you know your surgery date if you are able.
How many massages should I get?

This depends on what type of surgery you have had and your budget. I start doing light, gentle MLD anywhere from 1 day to 7 days after surgery. Usually, people start with several times a week for the first few weeks, then taper down. We can discuss all of this in your consult phone call or email. Your surgeon may also have specific recommendations or guidelines for post-op massage.
Do I Tip?

I price my services for what I need to make. Tipping is not necessary or expected. If you would like to show gratitude I always appreciate a referral or good review.
What payment do you take?

I take Cash, Venmo and Cards.
Do I need my doctors/surgeons clearance?

For any post-op massage you should be cleared by your surgeon for massage. Manual lymphatic drainage does not need to be cleared by a doctor, but it is always a good idea to ask if you are a suitable candidate. Things that may be dangerous for you to receive it include DVT, history of blood clots, heart failure and kidney failure. If you are coming in for lymphedema management I require a managing doctor or physical therapist. If you are currently or recently in cancer treatment, you will need doctors clearance for massage.
Do you do mobile post op massage?

I do on a case by case basis depending on scheduling. Please email me at Dani@lymphlaughlove.com to inquire. There is a fee for mobile massage.