What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a type of massage intended to stimulate the lymphatic system by releasing blockages and assisting the natural circulation required for the elimination of metabolic waste, excess fluids, and bacteria from the body.

Consisting of gentle, rhythmic, circular movements, the therapy activates the muscle cells in the walls of the lymph vessels and the surrounding skeletal muscles necessary to propel the lymph through the system.

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is actually a network of systems serving together as one of the body’s main defenses against infection.  In addition to creating and circulating immune cells throughout the body, the lymphatic system also carries away fluids from bodily tissues, absorbs fat and filters out waste and toxins through the lymph nodes and lymph ducts.

Consider the circulatory system as a fair analogy when thinking about the lymphatic.  Both are complicated networks of veins, vessels, and arteries, extending to virtually every part of the body.  But whereas the circulatory system is pumping blood through its tunnels with the strength of your heart, the lymphatic system is circulating a clear liquid called lymph with only slight muscle movements to help push it along.

Should I get Lymphatic Drainage?

If you're feeling tired and low on energy, or if you've been sick and feeling like your body is fighting to get back on track, lymph massage would likely serve you well. In addition, athletes, surgical patients, fibromyaliga and chronic fatigue sufferers may want to consider lymphatic massage.

After a sports injury or surgery, lymph vessels can become overwhelmed with the demand placed on them. When tissues are swollen, deep tissue techniques may actually cause damage to the lymph vessels and surrounding structures. Lymphatic massage is often the treatment of choice, because it helps the body remove proteins and waste products from the affected area and reduce the swelling. This helps reduce pressure on cells and allows them to reproduce faster to heal the body.

If you're not sure, you can book a consultation and short try out session with Sarah to learn more and get a better understanding of how the treatment feels.