The lymphatic system that protects the body from infections and illnesses is essential for a healthy immune system. It may get blocked due to various reasons such as infections, injuries, or cancer treatment.
A clogged lymphatic system can cause the following:
Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage, aids in the movement of lymph fluid that helps in the following:
- Blood circulation
- Tissue regeneration
- Collagen production
- Overall healing of the body
- Recovery from certain illnesses
This powerful, yet subtle, technique can:
- Reduce or prevent fluid retention.
- Improve toxin and waste removal from the body tissues.
- Boost the overall function of our immune system.
- Reduce swelling and improve lymphatic circulation throughout the body.
Apart from the above, lymphatic drainage massage provides the following advantages along with better muscular tone:
- Lymphatic drainage is most commonly used to treat lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling, most commonly in the arms and legs. One study discovered that combining lymphatic massage with compression helps reduce swelling in people with lymphedema.
- According to some research, this type of massage may help with fibromyalgia and orthopedic injuries. It is especially useful when pain prevents the use of deeper pressure massage techniques.
- One of the most widely publicized advantages of lymphatic drainage is its ability to relieve water retention. Lymphatic drainage massage works gently to release water buildup and reduce bloating in affected people.
- It allows proper circulation of the lymphatic vessels, resulting in improved immunity to fight infection.
- Lymphatic drainage massage improves the digestive system's function by assisting it in absorbing dietary fats.
- This massage aids in the recovery of tissues following surgery.
- It may benefit the skin by reducing the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, as well as cleaning the pores and reducing acne.
- Lymphatic drainage massage improves hormonal balance.
- It relieves stress and induces feelings of deep relaxation.
- Lymphatic drainage massage enhances tissue regeneration for sports injuries by increasing energy levels.
- It reduces breast soreness in nursing mothers, allowing for more effective breastfeeding.
- Lymphatic drainage massage is especially beneficial to people with limited mobility or who are bedridden.
Drink plenty of water to get the best results from the lymphatic drainage massage. In addition, include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet and limit your intake of processed foods. Maintaining physical activity helps maximize the benefits of this treatment.
How is lymphatic drainage massage performed?
Lymphatic drainage massage involves gentle pressure to improve lymphatic circulation and can be performed in two ways:
- Manual massage
- Lymphatic drainage massage can be performed manually by using very light rhythmic strokes to get the lymph flowing in the right direction.
- The physiotherapist gently stretches your skin with their fingers and flat hands to encourage the flow of lymph.
- A typical session may last anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the person's needs and areas of the body being treated.
- It is best to consult with a trained practitioner who can perform the appropriate movements for your condition or teach you some techniques you can use at home.
- Pressotherapy
- The pressotherapy device resembles a pair of Velcro sleeves that can be used to cover the legs, abdomen, or arms.
- The sleeves are densely packed with chambers, which are then connected to an air compressor that fills the chambers with air on an intermittent basis.
- As the air circulates, it creates slow, pressured waves that mimic the way the smooth muscle tissue pumps lymph fluid throughout the body.
Lymphatic drainage massage can encourage the flow of stagnant lymph, causing you to feel extra tired or sluggish right after the massage. Therefore, take it easy and rest afterward. If you had a lymphatic drainage massage, you should notice less swelling and possibly an increase in energy a day or two later. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can help your lymphatic system function properly, but it's beneficial to have additional maintenance massages, especially during the recovery period after surgery.
Who shouldn’t undergo lymphatic drainage massage?
Doctors do not advise people with the following conditions to use lymphatic drainage massage:
- Congestive heart failure
- History of blood clots or strokes
- Current infection
- Liver problems
- Kidney problems
These people, however, may seek permission from their doctors if they require a massage for specific body parts.
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References
What Is Lymph Drainage Massage? https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-lymph-drainage-massage#:
Systematic Review of Efficacy for Manual Lymphatic Drainage Techniques in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: An Evidence-Based Practice Approach: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2755111/
Systematic Review of Efficacy for Manual Lymphatic Drainage Techniques in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: An Evidence-Based Practice Approach: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2755111/
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