WHAT IS LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE? 


Lymphatic Drainage Massage, also known as Manual Lymph Drainage, relieves swelling that happens when medical treatment or illness blocks your lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage massage involves gently manipulation of specific areas of your body to help lymph move to an area with working lymph vessels.

Normally, your lymphatic system collects your lymph and returns it to your heart via a network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes. When something disrupts your lymphatic system’s process, lymph collects in your arms and legs, making them swell.

A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage massage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling in your tissues.

Performing an effective Lymphatic Drainage Massage requires special knowledge, training and experience. The therapist must understand how the lymphatic system works, both anatomically and physiologically, in order to move the fluid effectively.

An intriguing aspect of this technique is its remarkable power, which, when executed correctly, brings about a gentle and soothing sensation. This gentle approach is essential because lymph vessels, unlike cylindrical blood vessels, have a flatter shape. Applying excessive pressure can flatten these vessels, hindering proper fluid movement for drainage. A key indicator of the technique's effectiveness is experiencing dry mouth or dry eyes as a common side effect. If you wear contact lenses, remember to remove them before the session. It is typical to feel the need to urinate shortly after. Always communicate any bodily changes to your therapist to enhance the session.

Risks and Benefits

Generally speaking, lymphatic drainage massage is a safe treatment to relieve lymphedema. There are some conditions and circumstances where lymphatic drainage massage isn’t recommended:

Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re concerned your physical health might be affected by lymphatic drainage massage.

Other conditions that can benefit from lymphatic drainage massage:

Lymphatic drainage massages are often used to relieve lymphedema following breast cancer surgery. 

Other conditions that benefit from lymphatic drainage massages are:

Lymphatic massage is traditionally used to enhance overall immune system function. For individuals constantly feeling fatigued, prone to illness, and lacking energy, this method can naturally boost the immune system. If you have lymphedema (or edema), it is essential to consult a physician and seek guidance from a highly skilled lymphatic drainage specialist. If you are dealing with any of the mentioned conditions or preparing for cosmetic surgery, feel free to reach out to us to explore scheduling sessions with our certified lymphatic therapists.

If you are experiencing any of the mentioned conditions or are considering cosmetic surgery, feel free to reach out to us to arrange sessions with one of our certified Manual Lymph Drainage therapists.

It is advisable to plan ahead whenever possible because only a few of our therapists specialize in this area, and we want to ensure that someone is available for you.

For those planning procedures like liposuction, it's best not to wait until you're already experiencing uncomfortable swelling before seeking treatment.

Additionally, consider budgeting for lymphatic drainage massages in advance, as you may require ten or more sessions. WABS offers discounted packages that are ideal for this type of bodywork.

Other ways to remove lymphatic fluid 

Some people benefit from a mechanical process. In this process, you put a sleeve on the swollen arm or leg. The sleeve is attached to a pneumatic pump that pulsates and helps your lymph to drain from your tissues to your lymph nodes. LEARN MORE