Lymphatic Drainage Massage
In the early 1930s, Emil Vodder developed a massage procedure called Lymph Drainage massage. The lymphatic system serves as a structure for detoxifying or cleaning the human body from toxic wastes, and pathologic organisms that can harm the body’s normal body function. The lymphatic system caters to circulating cells-white blood cells that carry antibodies and cytokines that serves as the body’s defense mechanism against pathologic microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria and viruses.
If a trained lymphatic drainage massage therapist executes the proper sequence of massage movements, removal and detoxification of body’s natural waste becomes more enhanced. Also, having a Lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce the pain of swollen tissues by removing excess tissue fluids that are contained in that particular part of the body.
A body which has just recently undergone surgery and has a Lymphatic drainage massage, can heal faster. The massage procedure consists of light soothing massage methods.
Clients who had received the lymphatic drainage massage must drink adequate amounts of water for the fast and more efficient removal of toxins. Additionally, recipients must not take in salts and alcohol, because it prevents the body’s capability of removing and clearing toxic wastes. Since the lymphatic system is faintly sensitive to vigorous activities, tender touches, and stretches are integrated in the massage procedure to ensure the release of tension within the body. Also, relaxation and comfort can be at hand with lymphatic drainage massage.
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage technique which is intended to encourage the natural circulation of lymphatic fluid throughout the body in order to assist in reduction of localized swelling.
The body becomes prone to infections and diseases when the lymphatic system is not working at its optimal level. There are a lot of factors that can lead to your lymphatic system becoming blocked, causing reduced circulation and slowed immune response. These include lack of exercise, a diet rich in processed foods, not drinking enough water, exposure to toxins and pollutants, and poor posture.
The lymphatic system has no pump (like the heart) to push lymph fluid around. Instead, it relies on breathing and other bodily movements to transfer lymph fluid. Once the lymphatic flow slows down or becomes blocked, bacteria and viruses get the chance to multiply and attack the body. A lymphatic drainage massage has been developed in attempt to tackle this problem and provide lasting relief to persons suffering from a variety of complaints such as fatigue, muscle pain, and post surgery edema.
How the lymphatic drainage massage works
A lymphatic drainage massage is a type of gentle, full body massage that helps free the stagnated lymphatic system, allowing lymphatic fluids to drain smoothly back towards the heart. Lymphatic nodes that filter lymphatic fluids and produce germ-fighting lymphocytes are situated all over the body. They are concentrated in areas such as the head, neck, armpits and groin. The massage therapist first focuses on these sites, clearing any blockages and paving the way for fluid to drain into them. The therapist may then move on to your chest, arm, shoulder, back and side. The intention here is to create a path for the free flow of the lymph fluid.
This massage requires a very light touch, as too much pressure will only serve to squeeze and close the very vessels to be cleared. The therapist will use slow rhythmic circular movements to help the lymph vessels to open up. Since relaxation improves lymph manipulation, the therapist might dim the lights, play soothing music, or light scented candles.
Potential Benefits of the lymphatic drainage massage
- regenerates tissues and reduces scarring after surgery
- reduces lymphedema, a chronic and long term condition that leads to swelling in body tissues
- leads to better breastfeeding with reduced soreness in the breasts and nipples, by easing the swelling of engorgement and unplugging ducts
- reduces pain levels in the body
- rejuvenates anyone feeling tired and low on energy, or struggling to recover after illness
- is incorporated in the care program for fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome as it is well tolerated by these patients, who are often experiencing sore trigger points throughout the body.
Getting the lymphatic drainage massage is an effective way to help your body protect itself and remain in good shape.
Characteristics of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Relaxation **
Therapeutic *****
Intensity: Minimum
Lubrication: Yes
Undressing: Yes
Tip: Less Likely