Wood therapy, also calledmaderotherapyormaderoterapia, is a form ofmassagethat uses various hand-held wooden tools.

Wood therapy lacks scientific research.

Information about it comes largely from the spas and clinics that provide it rather than from established institutions.

Person receiving wood therapy facial massage

COROIMAGE / Getty Images

This article will discuss what wood therapy is said to do and if it works.

Other methods aimed at reducing cellulite will also be explored.

COROIMAGE / Getty Images

What Does Wood Therapy Do?

These techniques typically “knead” the skin using vacuum suction or a roller.

The reported smoothing effect from this technique is temporary and likely due to mild inflammation in the area.

Increase Lymphatic Circulation

Thelymphatic systemis part of the immune system.

It consists of a internet of vessels,nodes, and organs that carry lymph fluid throughout the body.

Lymph fluid contains white blood cells that fight infection.

It also helps rid the body of waste and excess fluid.

Manual lymphatic drainage is a specific punch in of massage used to encourage the natural movement of lymph fluid.

Wood therapy is different than manual lymphatic drainage massage.

Is Wood Therapy Effective?

Wood therapy has not been scientifically studied, so it is impossible to properly determine its effectiveness.

Reports of positive effects are largely anecdotal rather than backed by evidence.

However, studies are needed to determine if this is the case.

Deep, continuous, direct pressure is placed on “problem areas.”

The tools are sanitized between uses.

Sessions may become more comfortable over time.

Wood therapy may causebruisingfor some people.

Check with your healthcare provider before starting wood therapy.

Other Ways to Reduce Cellulite

Cellulite is very common.

About 85% to 90% of adult females have cellulite.

Cellulite is a “puckering” or dimpled look on the skin.

Cellulite is found most commonly on the outer thighs, back of the thighs, and butt.

Multiple treatments exist aiming at reducing cellulite, with varying degrees of efficacy.

Medical Treatments for Cellulite

There are several wayscellulite may be treated.

Wood therapy has no scientific research to back these claims.

Some practitioners of wood therapy say that wood therapy gives the butt a natural boost.

Wood therapy may involve vacuum lifting with cups.

However, this effect has not been proven.

It is possible for wood therapy to cause bruising.

Talk to your healthcare provider before trying wood therapy to be sure it is appropriate for you.

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