What is lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is the process in which the lymphatic fluid is encouraged to drain. Via massage therapy, such treatment is referred to often as lymphatic drainage massage. However, it is also known as lymph massage or manual lymphatic drainage (MLD therapy).
A gentle approach is used in lymphatic drainage massage to stimulate the acceleration of lymph drainage.
Benefits
Lymphatic drainage benefits the immune system overall. Lymphatic drainage massage is performed to reduce the size of lymphedema. Although lymphedema cannot be cured, this type of massage has proven effective in managing it.
Lymphedema occurs most commonly because lymph nodes have either been removed or damaged. After either case, a block forms within the lymphatic system. This block prevents proper lymphatic draining. People who have received treatment for cancer are often susceptible to lymphedema.
Following are complications that create health issues where lymphatic drainage massage can assist (list not all-inclusive):
- accidents
- breast surgery (for any reason)
- orthopedic surgery
- plastic surgery
- pregnancy (after first trimester)
- radiation therapy
- sports injury
- trauma
- venous insufficiency (problems with blood flow through veins)
The main function of the lymphatic system is detoxification. This valuable tool contributes largely to a healthy immune system and assists in the prevention of illness and disease. Therefore, if you simply want a lymphatic detox, lymphatic drainage therapy would complement any detox program.
Additionally, manual lymph drainage is an excellent treatment for people who suffer from fatigue, low energy levels, and mood swings.
What to expect from lymphatic drainage massage
If you are treating a specific health condition, your treatment will be designed to address your condition. Depending on your treatment, you may require the addition of compression therapy.
Because your treatment is customized for you, you may or may not disrobe. Normally, you will, if having the service without specific needs in mind. However, treatments will vary.
Lympn massage is designed specifically for lymph node drainage and removal of built up lymph fluid. Therefore, it is important not to expect a typical massage.
You will start out lying on your back. Your therapist will begin at the neck. They will apply gentle pressure (usually in a pumping motion) to different points around the neck and diaphragm, repeating several times.
The lymph nodes in the neck and head area will be massaged gently, unless they are swollen. In which case, the therapist will most likely tell you and suggest that you see your physician. Moving on, the lymph nodes in the arms and legs will be massaged and then you will turn over.
The therapist will massage from your feet to your back. Applying gentle pumping techniques, they work to encourage fluid to flow toward the axillary lymph nodes (located in the armpits). This treatment should take around 45 minutes to complete.
Please advise your therapist if you start experiencing a headache, nausea or dizziness. If so, these are signs that your system is trying to cleanse itself. Yes, you need the treatment. However, it may be best to stop and reschedule for 2-3 days later.
After your treatment and how often to have lymph massage
As mentioned above, this massage may cause temporary nausea, dizziness, muscle pain, and decreased energy. In general, these symptoms indicate the lymph massage is working. Unless these symptoms persist, this is normal because the toxins have been released. To help your body flush them out, drink plenty of water.
If you detox or cleanse regularly, however, you may not have any side effects. Do you receive massage on a regular basis, such as once a week? Then you should schedule lymphatic drainage on the fifth week.
Lymph massage is definitely recommended if you simply want to detox or boost your immune system. Schedule an appointment with a qualified manual lymph drainage therapist and then inquire as to how often you should receive treatment.
If you are treating a condition, expect to go every day for 2-4 weeks. However, confirm any details with your therapist for specifics related to you.
As always, consult with your physician before making your appointment. It is your responsibility–not the therapist’s–to confirm it is safe for you to have a lymphatic massage. Therefore, make sure you do not have an existing condition that would conflict with receiving the treatment.
Categories for Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Alternative Therapies
Detox Methods
Types of Massage
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