It is important to remember that a lymphatic massage is not painful and also not in other ways might be able to stimulate other effects. A session usually lasts from 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the scope and scale.
How Painful is Lymphatic Massage? Lymphatic drainage massages are not usually painful. Some people may experience some mild discomfort, especially if they are receiving the massage for the first time or if they have particularly sensitive skin.
Many have reported that they feel a feeling of tingling or flow of fluid under the skin, much like a small stream. Others report the feeling of being able to breathe deeply for the first time in a while because of the lymphatic flow in the sinuses.
How to know whether it is working? Those who use lymphatic drainage massages may notice that their swelling reduces. At the very least, swelling should not worsen. People who have lymphedema should continue using compression socks or sleeves to prevent swelling.
Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer. Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off infections.
The cycle of lymph drainage varies from person to person. 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.
Lymph fluid travels through the lymph vessels and drains into the bloodstream. This is a colourless fluid that is made in the body. It surrounds all body tissues. Extra fluid from tissue in the body drains into and flows through small lymph vessels.
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.
A lymphatic massage is similar to a regular massage but tends to involve lighter pressure and more stretching of the skin. It's a very gentle procedure and should not be painful. The massage will focus on the areas that house the main lymph nodes, such as your neck, armpits, and groin.
Lymphatic drainage also improves circulation, relaxes the body and combats localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and loss of excess water weight after their massage.
What happens if I'm feeling sick after a lymphatic drainage massage? Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea and fatigue.
Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.
Lymphatic drainage massage can stimulate the receptors of the lymphatic system. The mild, gentle massage movements increase the flow of excess fluids, bacteria, and metabolic wastes toward the lymph nodes.
MLD treatments are done with no lotion or oil, allowing the skin to stretch. Please don't apply oil or lotion before your treatment. Empty your bladder right before your treatment begins. The goal of a MLD treatment is to encourage the lymphatic system to work more efficiently and move stagnated fluid.
This is normal right after your surgery. This post-surgical lymphedema is caused by inflammation and trauma from the cannula used to suck out the fat. The channels that are formed by the cannula become fill up with fluid and the tissue around become swollen.
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.
Lymphatic drainage can leave you feeling exhausted. You may want to have a lie down, or at the very least, a very undemanding schedule for the rest of the day. Give your body time to ease back into activity. Lymphatic drainage massage may also leave you really thirsty.
Heat Release and Increased Blood Flow
The primary way that manual massage therapy helps 'release toxins' is by improving circulation which in turn helps your organs perform their natural detoxifying functions. As your massage therapist applies pressure to your skin blood flow increases and heat is released.
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.