The fluid in our lymphatic system helps extract toxins and waste from the tissues of the body. Certain health conditions can cause a build-up of lymph fluid, and a lymphatic drainage massage can help with pain relief for people with fibromyalgia, lymphedema and other conditions.
In this article, we discuss the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage, explain how it is done, and give examples of people who may benefit from it.
What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?
The lymphatic system depends on the smooth movement of muscles to allow fluid to pass through the lymph vessels. A condition called lymphedema can obstruct this flow, causing fluid to accumulate in certain areas of the body and cause painful swelling.
Lymphedema can develop after infections, cancer treatments that involve removing lymph nodes, and any other health concern that affects the lymph system.
Lymphatic massage can help reduce swelling and promote healthy circulation through the lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage massage is usually a component of a treatment programme known as decongestive lymphatic therapy or DLT.
By reducing swelling and promoting healthy lymphatic circulation, the massage can help reduce chronic pain and enable sufferers to live in greater comfort.
Who can benefit from a lymphatic drainage massage?
This type of treatment can be beneficial for anyone experiencing the following:
- Lymphedema
- Fibromyalgia
- Skin disorders
- Swelling or edema
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Stress
- Problems with digestion
- Migraines
- Arthritis
A systematic review conducted in 2015 concluded that lymphatic drainage massage may be more effective than connective tissue massage for the relief of symptoms like stiffness and depression in sufferers of fibromyalgia.
Lymphatic massage is not suitable for people with congestive heart failure, kidney problems, blood clots, infections or circulation issues. If you have any existing medical conditions, you should consult your doctor before trying a lymphatic drainage massage.
How is lymphatic drainage massage performed?
People can visit a trained professional for a lymphatic massage, but some more basic techniques can be used at home. In any case, it is important to speak to your doctor before you try.
Important features of lymphatic massage include:
- It should only affect the skin, so gentle pressure is applied throughout.
- Swollen or infected areas are not massaged.
- Areas that have undergone cancer treatment will not be massaged.
- You are encouraged to drink extra fluids afterwards to help flush the system.
Preparing for a massage
The preparation for lymphatic drainage massage involves stimulating the lymphatic system and preparing the lymph nodes to take in more fluid. Deep breathing exercises are part of this, as well as gentle movements of the skin in key areas.
What areas can be massaged?
Different massage techniques are used on different regions of the body. Lymph fluid can be drained from both the upper and lower body.
Upper body:
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Arms
- Fingers
Lower body:
- Upper leg
- Lower leg
- Toes
How can you tell if the lymphatic drainage massage is working?
Successful lymphatic drainage massage therapy may cause painful swelling to reduce. At the very least, your swelling should not get any worse.
Sufferers of lymphedema are encouraged to continue wearing compression socks and/or sleeves to help prevent swelling.
People who receive lymphatic massages to treat symptoms of fibromyalgia may find that they experience less stiffness and pain. They might also experience improvements to their general health.
To further the effects of boosting the lymphatic system and removing toxins from the body, you can try:
- Drinking lots of water
- Remaining physically active
- Eating fruits and vegetables regularly
- Having less processed foods in your diet
Conclusion
Lymphatic drainage massage can be used to help reduce swelling and improve your lymphatic circulation. A properly functioning lymphatic system is fundamental to your overall health.
If you feel you might benefit from a lymphatic drainage massage, please feel free to get in touch and ask any questions you may have.