Lymphatic Drainage Massage stimulates the lymphatic system to help it work more effectively to remove toxins that accumulate between cells. It uses very light pressure and does not work on your muscles. If the lighter pressure appeals to you and you want to work on relieving your muscles, you should book a Swedish Massage.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels, and organs that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into your circulatory system. The lymphatic system is responsible for the removal of cellular toxins and waste and plays a role in how fast we recover and heal.
A Lymphatic Drainage Massage helps this process by manually moving the fluid along and reduces swelling brought on by illness or medical treatments. The techniques used carefully encourage lymph to flow towards functioning lymph veins and aims to help the body maintain proper blood circulation, body fluid balance, and immune functions.
The lymphatic system flows all throughout your body. According to Dr. Lal, a double board certified adult pediatric and cosmetic dermatologist, lymphatic drainage massages can be performed on almost any part of the body to promote the flow of lymphatic fluid. You’ll find the highest number of lymph nodes in the groin and underarms which are known as superficial lymph and deep lymphs are found in the neck pelvic and abdomen area.
Unlike your circulatory system, your lymphatic system doesn’t have an organ that pumps lymph fluid through a network of channels. A proper massage is what can aid in your lymph flow. The smooth upward movement of lymph is assisted by the pressure created by muscle and joint movement.
“It’s a very gentle and manual technique,” Stout explains. You will want to use light, circular, and sweeping motions to stimulate and mobilize the lymph vessels. The lymph vessels and nodes are “very superficial in the skin,” Stout says, which is why only very light pressure is needed.
What can affect your lymphatic system?
A healthy lymphatic system can become compromised due to a lack of physical activity, stress, and poor diet. This can lead to a range of issues, including tissue swelling, excess weight, headaches, joint pain, fatigue, and increased susceptibility to illness.
While lymphatic drainage massage is a necessary treatment for those with lymphedema, the technique does have many other benefits. Manual lymphatic drainage can also reduce swelling caused by medical treatment or illnesses blocking the lymphatic system. Reducing the risk of infections, therefore, boosting the immune system is also a great benefit.
The lymphatic system is constantly working to keep the body healthy and clean. Doing things such as eating a healthy diet to reduce toxins or staying hydrated to keep lymph fluid flowing through the body are great ways to keep your lymph system healthy. Drinking plenty of water before and after your massage is also a great way to flush the toxins out of your body.
Is Lymphatic Massage for you?
Lymphatic drainage massage is commonly used for people with lymphedema, a condition which occurs when the lymphatic system fails to drain the lymph. This can occur from chronic issues if brought on by serious illnesses or be temporary during pregnancy or when in recovery from surgery. If you find yourself with any swollen area such as the arms or legs, a Lymphatic Drainage Massage will be beneficial to you.
