What Does a Lymphatic Massage Do?

Lymphatic massage, which was originally developed to address lymphedema and lymph system diseases, may be prescribed as part of a therapy plan or postoperative cancer treatment. Lymphatic massage is also currently being promoted as a way to remove cellulite, do facial contouring, and strengthen the immune system.

Lymphatic drainage massage is based on the theory that clogged lymph nodes in a specific area of your body could be “cleared out” by executing a series of repetitive, compressive strokes along lymph veins. Practitioners believe that it can relieve swelling and/or inflammation caused by lymphatic diseases. 

A lymphatic massage promotes the passage of lymph fluid throughout the body, which helps reduce the risk of infection. Lymphatic drainage massage therapy may also enhance the outcome of other medical therapies.

During lymphatic drainage massage, a massage therapist gently manipulates the tissues of the affected area in the direction of lymph flow (lymph flows in one direction, which is upward toward the neck). They use gentle and light touches to guide the skin in the direction of the lymphatic system, thereby increasing circulation. 

There are two methods for performing lymphatic drainage massage:

• Manual massage: Manual massage can be performed using very light rhythmic strokes to move the lymph in the right direction. To encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid, the physiotherapist gently stretches your skin with their fingers and flat hands. Depending on the needs and the areas of the body being treated, a typical session can last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. 
• Pressotherapy: The Pressotherapy tool resembles a set of adjustable Velcro sleeves that can be used to cover the legs, arms, or abdomen. The chambers in the sleeves are tightly packed. The air chambers are then intermittently filled with air with the attached air compressor. Slow, pressured waves are produced as the air moves around, simulating the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body by smooth muscle tissue.

Techniques that are commonly used by lymphatic massage therapists include:

• Vodder: Uses a variety of hand motions to sweep the area being worked on
• Foldi: Uses thrusting and swirling hand motions to help induce relaxation
• Casley-Smith: Involves using the side of the hand to make small, gentle effleurage movements
• Leduc: Utilizes motions that mimic how lymphatic fluid is absorbed initially in the smallest lymphatics and then moves into the largest lymphatics

Lymphatic drainage massage can help move stagnant lymphatic fluid. This may make you feel extra tired or sluggish immediately following the massage. If you had a lymphatic drainage massage, you should have less swelling and possibly more energy after a day or two. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help your lymphatic system function properly, but additional maintenance massages are beneficial, especially during the recovery period after surgery.

Lymphatic drainage massage encourages lymphatic movement and ensures that all your lymph nodes are properly draining. Regular treatments can be extremely beneficial to overall health.

1. Improves body functions

• Detoxification
• Blood circulation
• Tissue regeneration
• Collagen production
• Overall healing
• Recovery from certain illnesses
• Improved circulation
• Reduces swelling and fluid retention

2. Enhances the immune system

• Removes harmful waste and toxins from the body and can help boost your immune system if you have been sick recently.
• Efficiently relaxes lymph movement to a broad network of veins and nodes, increasing the immunity of persons with compromised immune systems or chronic diseases.

3. Boosts energy

• Many people report feeling more energized after receiving a lymphatic drainage massage.

4. Promotes better sleep

• Massage can relieve pain and stress and promote healing, which can help people who have trouble sleeping.

5. Clears sinus issues

• You may experience sinus or allergy issues if your lymph flow is disrupted. Draining the sinus-related lymph nodes can help relieve congestion and provide much-needed relief.

6. Prevents lymphedema

• When normal lymph flow is severely disrupted (as a result of infection, cancer treatments, surgeries, or medical conditions), lymphedema develops, causing significant swelling in one or more limbs.
• Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and prevent lymphedema from worsening. Some studies suggest that lymph drainage massages can be used as a preventative measure of lymphedema.

7. Reduces leg swelling

• Poor vein health is often related to poor leg circulation. However, the issue is likely caused by lymph nodes in your legs rather than veins. 
• If you experience swelling, soreness, or discomfort in your legs, speak to your doctor and therapist about lymph drainage massage that may help you get symptomatic relief.

8. Healing after surgery

• Helps heal and regenerate tissue at surgical scar sites. 
• Cleanses the body and reduces edema, which is common after surgery.

9. Other potential benefits

• Better muscular tone
• May treat fibromyalgia and orthopedic injuries
• Reduces bloating and water retention
• Assists to absorb dietary fats, which increases overall metabolism
• Reduces the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, cleans pores, and reduces acne
• Improves hormonal balance
• Enhances tissue regeneration for sports injuries by increasing energy levels
• Reduces nursing mothers' breast soreness, allowing them to breastfeed more effectively

Lymphatic drainage massage is generally safe as long as it is done gently and by a professional. However, there are a few conditions in which an increase in lymph flow is not recommended:

• Acute inflammation: Lymphatic drainage massage can push bacteria, viruses, and allergens into the lymph channels before the body has a chance to eliminate them. Lymphatic drainage can speed up the spread of toxins throughout your body.
• Malignant tumors: Lymphatic drainage massage is not recommended for people with tumors due to the risk of cancer spreading.
• Thrombosis and phlebitis: Lymphatic drainage massage may aggravate the symptoms of these conditions, potentially resulting in free-floating blood clots.
• Major heart problems: If the heart is not working properly, adding additional fluid to it through lymph drainage massage can exacerbate the condition.

Therefore, lymphatic drainage massage is not advised for people with the following conditions:

• Congestive heart failure
• History of blood clots or stroke
• Current infection
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems

However, if these individuals need a massage for any part of the body, they can ask their doctor for approval.

You may experience some minor side effects for the next few days after a lymphatic drainage massage. Because of the stimulation of the kidneys, your urine may become darker. Your urination frequency may increase throughout the day because your body is getting rid of the excess toxins. You may feel sore and tired after your session.

You must inform your massage therapist of any prior or current health concerns you may have before the start of the session. This allows your massage therapist to work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your session.

To get the best results from lymphatic drainage massage, drink plenty of water, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, and limit your intake of processed foods. Regular exercise also contributes to maximizing the benefits of the treatment.