Cellulite Massage Treatment

Cellulite consists of subcutaneous deposits of fat that have a dimpled or puckered appearance. It is usually seen on the thighs, buttocks and legs. The precise cause of cellulite is still unknown, which makes it hard to study and treat. Gaining reliable data on cellulite treatment is further hindered by methodical problems in the design of most published trials. That's one reason that, to this day, there is no cellulite "cure." Most accepted and safe treatment options focus on healthy lifestyle choices including improving a person's diet, cardiovascular and toning exercises, and weight loss. Some studies do exist, however, on the benefits of massage treatment.

Endermologie

Vigorous massage that aims to improve appearance in areas with cellulite is done with the theory that it will increase blood flow in the affected area, reduce excess fluid and remove toxins, according to the Mayo Clinic. Lipomassage, also called endermologie, involves kneading the skin between the rollers of a hand-held machine. People often notice a small improvement in the area with this treatment. The results, however, are short-lived, according to the clinic.

FDA Rating

There is no reliable evidence that endermologie has an effect on cellulite, collagen or fat. However, many businesses advertise the machines used for the procedure as being FDA-approved Class I medical devices for cellulite treatment. This sometimes leads people to conclude they are effective, safe and endorsed by the FDA. However, Class 1 devices are subject to little regulatory control, according to the FDA. Other Class 1 devices include examination gloves and elastic bandages. "The FDA attributes no efficacy value to Endermologie machines," according to Paula Begoun, author of "The Beauty Bible," and a syndicated columnist.

Positive Study

A small December, 2008 study done in Spain concluded that treating cellulite with a combination of radio frequency, intense infrared light and mechanical massage and suction is effective in treating cellulite. Ten women had one buttock treated during the two-month study. "Improved skin appearance was noticed after the first session and was maintained throughout the study. All patients were satisfied with the results and requested further treatment in order to balance the results in both buttocks," according to study authors. The authors acknowledged, however, that the trial population was limited and that larger studies are needed.

Negative Study

The Spanish study contradicts the results of a 1999 study done in England. This 12-week study took 52 women and divided them into groups treated with twice-weekly applications of aminophylline cream on one thigh and buttock, endermologie on one thigh and buttock and endermologie on both thighs and buttocks along with the cream. Results were judged subjectively by both the patient and researchers. "The best subjective assessment, by the patients themselves, revealed that only three of 35 aminophylline-treated legs and 10 of 35 Endermologie-treated legs had their cellulite appearance improved. The authors do not believe that either of these two treatments is effective in improving the appearance of cellulite," according to study authors.

ASAPS Review

Endermologie is often presented and advertised as an alternative to liposuction. However, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, treatments can improve appearance in areas of cellulite temporarily. Long-term results have not been verified either scientifically or clinically, according to the society.