Study on massage and lymphatic drainage for cellulite

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of three non-invasive treatment techniques on fat mass and regional fat thickness in patients with cellulite.

Sixty subjects were randomized into three groups: Group 1 received mechanical massage (MM). Group 2 received manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Group 3 received connective tissue massage (CTM).

The participants were examined using standardized photographs, body composition analysis (TBF 300) (body weight, BMI, fat percentage, fat mass, fat-free mass, total body water), circumference measurement of the thigh, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and fat fold measurements on the abdomen, suprailium and thigh.

All groups showed a reduction in subcutaneous fat after treatment. The thigh circumference decreased by an average of 0.5 cm in all groups. Fat thickness in the thigh decreased by 1.66 mm in group 1, by 2.21 mm in group 2 and by 3.03 mm in group 3. Fat thickness in the abdomen and suprailium decreased by 2.4 mm and 2.58 mm in group 1, by 1.78 mm and 2 mm in group 2 and by 1.23 mm and 0.64 mm in group 3. The average change in waist-to-hip ratio was 0.1 cm in all groups.

All three treatment techniques are effective in reducing regional fat levels in patients with cellulite.