What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage, a type of massage that benefits the lymphatic system and removes toxins from the body, is one example.

It is believed to increase the flow of lymphatic liquid and decrease swelling in your lymph nodes.

There are many types of lymphatic drain massages. The preparation and massage will differ depending on the part of your body that needs it.

Lymphatic drainage massage (also known as manual lymphatic drainage) is a type of massage that encourages the natural drainage and removal of lymph fluid. This clear fluid helps to eliminate waste and toxins from your body.

The lymphatic system comprises a network involving vessels and nodes that runs through the body and drains into your circulation.

It filters lymph fluid through the lymph nodes, which are white blood cells. This removes toxins.

Many conditions can lead to lymph fluid buildup. A lymphatic drainage massage can improve your lymphatic system function and reduce swelling.

Licensed therapists can only give lymphatic massages. However, it is possible to learn how to do them at home.

A lymphatic drainage massage is a must-have for anyone.

Lymphatic drainage massage can help with several common medical conditions. These conditions are:

Lymphedema

Lymphedema refers to swelling of your legs or arms due to lymph fluid buildup after a lymph node surgery.

The most common types of surgery are:

Breast cancer surgery (most often).
Vascular surgery.
Lipectomy (surgery for fat removal).
Removal of burn scars.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition, causes pain and tenderness in the body’s muscles, joints, and tissues.

You may also experience fatigue, insomnia, depression, and cramps, among other symptoms.

Filariasis

Filariasis, a parasitic infection of mosquitoes, is called “filariasis”. The parasites are found in your lymphatic system. They can cause severe swelling in your legs, arms, and skin rashes.

Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT, is a blood clot in your veins that usually forms in your legs.

DVT can cause swelling and pain in the affected limb. It can also be dangerous if it breaks free and travels to your lungs, where it can block an arterial. This is known as a pulmonary embolism.

Insufficient blood flow to your extremities

One of many medical conditions that can cause a lack of blood flow to your extremities is diabetes and peripheral artery disease. Raynaud’s syndrome may also be a possible cause.

These conditions can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the affected limb.

Infection

An infection can cause swelling of your lymph nodes and may also cause fever, chills, or body aches.

Trauma

Trauma such as a car accident, a fall or other events can cause swelling of your lymph nodes.

What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?

A lymphatic drainage massage is necessary if you have lymphedema from lymphatic fluid buildup.

Along with other lymphatic therapies that are decongestive, the lymphatic drainage massage benefits also include:

Reduce swelling in your limbs
Reduce swelling in your chest and groin, face and shoulders
Reduce your pain

There are also other forms of decongestive Lymphatic Therapy:

To improve circulation and swelling, a tight-fitting compression garment will be used
Exercise
Skincare

What are the stages of lymphatic massage, and how do they differ?

Two stages are involved in a lymphatic massage. We will discuss each below.

Clearing

Clearing lymph nodes is the first stage. To do this, you or your therapist must perform a few simple stretches while lying down. Also, a gentle massage to areas that affect the lymphatic systems will be required.

This gentle stretching and massage flush the lymphatic system, releasing any excess fluid.

Reabsorption

Reabsorption is the gentle massage of lymphedema-affected areas.

The reabsorption phase aims to transport the lymphatic fluid to your tissues.

How can I prepare for a lymphatic massage?

You can prepare for a lymphatic treatment by doing several things. You will need to prepare for a lymphatic massage using light pressure on the skin, not the muscles below.

Neck

Gently press your middle and index fingers on the opposite sides of your neck.

Continue this 5 times, then repeat the process on the back and sides of your neck.

Arms

Place your back flat on a surface. Cross your arms across your chest. Gently lift and lower your elbows five to ten times.

Next, raise one arm above your head. Then use the other to cup your armpit. Make a scooping motion upwards and downwards. Do the same with the other armpit.

Elbows

Place one arm straight up at your side while lying flat on a surface. Pull the skin around your elbow inch at a stretch.

What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?