The bottom line. Lymphatic massage, or manual lymphatic drainage, has proven benefits for people who have lymphedema or are at risk for developing it. It could possibly help improve overall health in others, but those benefits aren't yet backed by research.
Immediate results are general lightness and deep relaxation. The fluid drainage can occurs 24-48 hours post session. The difference in drainage also varies from person to person, depending on the health of their lymphatic systems.
A lymphatic drainage treatment (otherwise known as lymphatic massage) can help with fat burning as well as overall health. Lymphatic drainage therapy can help increase lymph flow, help the body shed excess weight, and offer a fresher look with less clogged pores and less puffy skin.
In order to see lasting results, Makimoto-Domino recommends three sessions. During your first session, you massage therapist can evaluate your needs, but it is generally recommended that you do lymphatic drainage once a week.
Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea and fatigue. When that happens, you should ask your healthcare provider about managing your side effects.
Acute inflammation, Malignant tumors, Thrombosis and major heart problems are all contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage. Lets look at these one at a time.
How often should you get a lymphatic drainage massage? For the best effects, a professional may recommend lymphatic drainage from once per month to once per week. For home use, they may also advise the person massage one to two body parts per day.
While you can always come and see us for a lymphatic drainage massage even if you're not exhibiting any specific symptoms, several signs indicate you may need one: You have congestion or fullness in your ears. You suffer from headaches. You feel fatigued or run down.
What to expect during lymphatic drainage massage. Each session during a lymphatic drainage massage lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, Hammad says, and involves more stretching of the skin and lighter pressure than a traditional Swedish or deep tissue massage.
Absolute Contraindications:
Acute inflammation – caused by bacteria, viruses and poisons are contraindicated. Tissues will be red, hot, and painful with congestion accompanied by fever. Lymphatic drainage will push these substances into the lymph channels before the body has a chance to eliminate them.
You can try a seated, standing or lying down position. Try to do self-massage every day. If you need to do the massage on both sides of your body, start on one side of your body and go through each step. Once you have completed the steps on one side, repeat them on the other side of your body.
Deep tissue massage encourages lymphatic flow and circulation, which aid in detoxification and weight loss as well. Combined with a good exercise regimen and a natural whole foods diet, massage can help reduce excess fat and weight in your body.
Massages can be dehydrating, so it's best to replenish your body with water. Drink 2-4 glasses of water after your massage to help properly flush out your lymphatic system. Drinking water helps flush your kidneys which are responsible for getting rid of toxins.
Having a massage has a similar effect on our body akin to light to moderate exercise. And just like after exercise, you can become dehydrated after a massage. Dehydration can cause you to feel light headed, dizzy, nauseated, and even cause a headache. Drinking water will re-hydrate you and help reduce these symptoms.
After Care:
Be gentle with yourself after lymphatic drainage. Drink lots of water to help your body flush out the toxins and to prevent dehydration. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours afterwards and avoid hot baths, showers, or sauna's immediately after treatment.
Get a good night's rest – It's possible you may feel a little tired after receiving a lymphatic drainage massage. That's completely normal as your body's energy is concentrated on the detoxification process its undergoing. Get to bed early if you can and enjoy a deep rest.
Looking After Your Lymphatic System
Drink plenty of water – Dehydration is one of the most common causes of lymphatic congestion which can further exacerbate existing lymph problems. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day encourages healthy lymphatic function and reduces water retention.
1) Soreness/Stiffness – If you frequently feel sore or stiff, you may have sluggish or congested lymph fluid. You may also have lingering pain or tightness that cannot be explained. 2) Headaches – Inadequate lymphatic and sinus drainage creates inflammation and pressure which causes headaches.
The lymphatic system is a network of delicate tubes throughout the body. It drains fluid (called lymph) that has leaked from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream via the lymph nodes.
Lymphatic Massage Benefits
Helps reduce water retention. Helps reduce and remove toxins from the body. Provides deep relaxation and helps relieve symptoms of anxiety depression, insomnia, and more. Faster regeneration and healing of burns and scars.
Lymphatic massage can be performed in the morning or the evening. While morning massage helps to reduce swelling that can occur during the night, evening massage can be extremely relaxing and aid in falling asleep more easily. Begin with clean and dry skin – save the oils for a bit later.