LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
WHAT IS A LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE FOR?
Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage, is a gentle form of massage that is used to relieve painful swelling in the arms and legs caused by lymphedema. Lymphedema often affects people recovering from surgery.
Lymphedema occurs when its tissues retain the liquid that remains after the cardiovascular system sends blood to its tissues and organs.
The remaining liquid is called lymph. Normally, the lymphatic system collects it’s lymph and returns it to the heart through a network of lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. When something interrupts the process of your lymphatic system, the lymph accumulates in your arms and legs, causing them to swell.
A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage massage techniques to move the lymph.
DO LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGES WORK?
Health care providers are still studying whether lymphatic drainage massages make a difference. Some studies show that people aged 60 and under benefit from lymphatic drainage massages.
WHAT ARE SOME CONDITIONS THAT CAN BENEFIT FROM LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE?
Lymphatic drainage massages are often used to relieve lymphedema following surgery. Other conditions that benefit from lymphatic drainage massages are:
Rheumatoid arthritis: This is ongoing arthritis in your joints causing joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
Fibromyalgia: This condition causes chronic muscle and joint pain.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This happens when your leg veins are not working effectively, making it hard for your blood to return to your heart from your legs.
Lymphedema: This happens when excess fat accumulates in your lower body, blocking your lymphatic pathway and causing lymphedema.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I FEEL BAD AFTER A LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE?
Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea, and fatigue. When that happens, you should turn to our team.