Benefits of a Limphatic Drainage Massage

 Manual lymph drainage is a form of therapeutic massage based upon the theory that it will aid the body's natural lymphatic drainage, which takes away waste products from the tissues and returns them to the heart. It also is believed that it reduces pain by relaxing muscles, tones the immune system and improves blood flow. When lymph circulation is improved, there is less pressure on key parts of the body, such as the joints, bones, and tendons. This enables joints to heal more quickly and efficiently. A good massage therapist uses their hands to apply gentle pressure on the parts of the body that are affected, with a focus on the affected areas. When lymph circulation is improved, more nutrients can be carried from the cells in the blood to the cells in the tissue, resulting in an increase in cell growth.

Limphatic drainage, sometimes referred to as venous congestion, occurs when there is a blockage or limiting of one of the major veins carrying blood to the skin. This condition is not uncommon in older adults, although it does occur frequently in younger and healthier individuals. The condition is caused by a weakening of the vein walls, allowing fluid or other substances to pool around the ankle, feet, and lower legs. Limphatic drainage massage, performed by a skilled therapist, can assist in correcting the blockage and restore proper drainage.

There are several massage therapy techniques used to perform a lymphatic drainage massage. The most common is known as the leg massage, or the kneading movement used to release blockages in the deep tissues. By applying steady pressure to the area being treated, the therapist is able to gradually loosen and release the blockage. The massage also helps to increase circulation and increase lymphatic flow, especially in the lower limbs and lower body. It may also encourage increased activity in the affected area, as well as an increase in the flow of lymph fluid. This helps reduce inflammation.

Another common technique used in lymphatic drainage massage is the wet squeeze technique. Using warm, damp towels or sponges, the massage therapist applies a light amount of pressure along the veins of the leg or the lower limb being treated. After a short time, with a little water to rinse the towel or sponge, the therapist will make a "squeeze" with the towels and draw fluid away from the area being treated. This practice helps to draw toxins and other waste material out of the area, while encouraging increased lymph flow.

The lymphatic system works with the immune system to keep the body functioning properly. Therefore, dysfunction of this system can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are apparent right away. Some of these symptoms include aching muscles, weakness, and lack of energy. Other symptoms include fever, general malaise, loss of appetite, and stomach problems. Each of these symptoms can be linked to a malfunctioning or depleting of the lymphatic system. Limphing may be the first symptom of a number of medical conditions including diabetes, HIV/AIDS, kidney problems, or digestive disorders.

A lymphatic massage is usually very effective for patients suffering from muscle pain, stiffness, or soreness. This therapy can also help the body to increase its ability to absorb nutrients, thus reducing fatigue. It can also improve circulation and decrease swelling in the feet. When the lymph system is functioning properly, there is a decreased risk of infection, and a decreased chance of damage to vital organs. The benefits of this therapy can go far beyond the immediate situation it is used for, however.

Because the lymphatic system is connected to the brain, a lymphatic massage can relieve the mental stress caused by physical discomfort. The same is true for the emotional distress that comes with physical limitations. This form of therapy can be very beneficial to people who have had accidents that jarred their spinal cord. In fact, most back surgeries are performed on individuals whose spines were severely injured as a result of an accident.

A skilled massage therapist can perform a lymphatic therapy on his or her own, or can do it alongside traditional therapeutic massage. It's important to remember, though, that a massage therapist has many years of training and experience, as well as a wealth of knowledge about the body and its systems. This person should have extensive experience working with various body parts, such as the legs, feet, arms, back, and neck. A good massage therapist will not only know where the malfunctioning parts of the body are, but should also have an understanding of why those parts are having trouble working correctly. This person will be able to pinpoint the areas of concern and carefully work each part of the body until all is properly balanced and working again.