Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It can help relieve symptoms of lymphedema.
The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from body tissues. Some health conditions can cause lymph fluid to build up.
Lymphatic drainage massages may benefit people with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, or other conditions.
In this article, we discuss the benefits of lymphatic massage, who may find it useful, and how a person can prepare for and perform it at home.
What is lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic massage, sometimes called manual lymphatic drainage, is a specialized type of medical massage. It can help treat lymphedema, in which lymphatic fluid collects in certain areas of the body because it cannot drain away effectively.
Lymphatic massage aims to improve the flow of lymph fluid, which should reduce swelling. Massaging an area without swelling will make space for fluid to flow to those parts from more congested areas.
There are two types of lymphatic drainage:
- Manual: A qualified therapist will perform manual lymphatic drainage.
- Simple: Simple lymphatic drainage is a technique a person can use at home.
Anyone planning on learning simple lymphatic drainage should learn how to do it from a specialist. It is essential to know which area to massage and how much pressure to use.
Who can benefit?
Lymphatic massages can benefit people who have a buildup of lymphatic fluid. Which may occur with
- cancer and cancer treatments that involve the removal of lymph nodes
- filariasis, which is an infestation of the lymph nodes by a parasite carried by mosquitoes
- some types of vascular surgery, such as vein stripping
- burn scar excision
- lipectomy, a type of surgery to remove fat from the body
- infection or trauma in the lymphatic system
- a buildup of fluid due to deep vein thrombosis
- health conditions that affect blood flow to the extremities
Lymphatic buildup affects around 1 in 5 females after treatment for breast cancer.
However, this type of massage may not be suitable or safe for some people, for example, if they have cellulitis or a heart condition. People should speak with a doctor before using lymphatic massage.
Therapist:
Tanya Haines
