Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic massage, also known as lymphatic drainage massage (LDM), is a type of therapeutic massage that is designed to encourage the flow of lymph, a fluid that carries white blood cells and other immune system components throughout the body. The lymphatic system plays an essential role in the body's ability to fight off infection and disease, and lymphatic massage can help to boost its effectiveness.

During a lymphatic massage, a therapist uses gentle, rhythmic strokes and light pressure to help move lymphatic fluid through the body. This can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, improve circulation, and boost the immune system.

Conditions which lymphatic massage can aid include:

• Post-surgery/post-op recovery

• Inflammation

• Lymphedema

• Edema

• Fibromyalgia

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Headaches/Migraines

• Stress & Anxiety

Lymphatic massage can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have undergone surgery or have been immobilized due to injury or illness. Some conditions can cause lymphatic fluid to build up in certain areas of the body, leading to discomfort, swelling, and a decreased ability to fight off infection. Lymphatic massage can help to alleviate these symptoms by improving circulation and reducing reduce inflammation.

The massage itself is gentle and soothing, with the therapist using a combination of light strokes, muscular stretching, and circular motions to encourage lymphatic flow. Many people find the gentle, nurturing touch of a lymphatic massage to be deeply relaxing and soothing, which can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety, stress, and tension. It can also help to improve sleep quality, boost energy levels, and promote a general sense of calm and well-being.

Lymphatic drainage massage is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as active infections or cancer. If you are considering lymphatic massage, it's important to consult with your doctor to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. However, for many people, lymphatic massage can be a safe and effective way to support their healing and recovery.

If you're still wondering whether this treatment can help you, feel free to book a consultation so we can further understand your therapeutic needs.

References:

1. Ekici, G., Bakar, Y., Akbayrak, T., & Yuksel, I. (2009). Comparison of manual lymph drainage therapy and connective tissue massage in women with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 32(2), 127-133.

2. Bayrakci Tunay, V., Akbayrak, T., Bakar, Y., Kayihan, H., & Ergun, N. (2010). Effects of mechanical massage, manual lymphatic drainage and connective tissue manipulation techniques on fat mass in women with cellulite. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 24(2), 138-142.

3. Thompson, B., Gaitatzis, K., Janse de Jonge, X., Blackwell, R., & Koelmeyer, L. A. (2021). Manual lymphatic drainage treatment for lymphedema: a systematic review of the literature. Journal of Cancer Survivorship, 15, 244-258.

4. Williams, A. (2010). Manual lymphatic drainage: exploring the history and evidence base. British journal of community nursing, 15(Sup3), S18-S24.

5. Happe, S., Peikert, A., Siegert, R., & Evers, S. (2016). The efficacy of lymphatic drainage and traditional massage in the prophylaxis of migraine: a randomized, controlled parallel group study. Neurological Sciences, 37, 1627-1632.

6. Cleavland Clinic: Lymphatic Drainage Massage

7. WebMD: What is Lymph Drainage Massage