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.
Lymphatic drainage massage has been used for people with lymphedema, which involves swelling, generally in one of your legs or arms. The swelling is caused by lymph fluid that's collected in the soft tissues, due to genetic disorders, injury, infection, cancer treatment, or surgery.
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. Other people feel rejuvenated, and others feel a deep relaxation.
The pumping action of deep breathing will help the lymphatic system transport the toxins into the blood before they are detoxified by the liver.
Regular physical exercise is a great way to get your lymphatic system pumping and detoxing your system of waste. Jumping, walking, stretching, yoga, Pilates, and other moderate exercises done on a daily basis will really improve the state of your lymph.
There are some conditions and circumstances where lymphatic drainage massage is not recommended: You have a heart condition. You have kidney failure. You have blood clots.
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.
Increased lymphatic drainage is where the lymphatic system is stimulated and waste products are removed through lymph flow. Lymphatic drainage is increased using a variety of techniques including effleurage, compression and skin rolling.
Epsom salts work magic on the lymphatic system due to their high levels of Magnesium, a mineral known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In combination with the natural diuretic quality of mineral salts and the temperature of the water, Epsom salt baths have been shown to stimulate lymph circulation in the body.
The lymphatic system requires water to flow properly. After all, lymph fluid is primarily composed of water and must be hydrated to function and flow. Drinking at least 1 litre of warm lemon water in the morning is a great way to get the lymphatic system moving to help expel toxins.
The lymphatic vessels drain into collecting ducts, which empty their contents into the two subclavian veins, located under the collarbones. These veins join to form the superior vena cava, the large vein that drains blood from the upper body into the heart.
A lymphatic drainage treatment (otherwise known as a lymphatic massage) can help with weight loss and general health. A lymphatic drainage treatment can help get the lymph flowing, help the body get rid of excess weight and give a fresher appearance with unclogged pores and less puffy looking skin.
You might have stiff and creaky joints, soreness and general achiness – especially when you first wake up – if your lymphatic system isn't draining excess fluids as it should. The results range from inflammation and poor circulation to a lack of joint lubrication that causes these uncomfortable symptoms.
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.
Avoid diuretics (“water pills”), alcohol and caffeine.
They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema.
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.
When the lymphatic system stops functioning properly and becomes sluggish, fat absorption becomes impaired, and fat accumulates in tissues. Over time this accumulation can lead to noticeable weight gain and extra difficulty releasing weight.
Common infections that can cause enlarged lymph nodes include strep throat, mononucleosis, HIV infection and infected skin wounds. Lymphadenitis refers to lymphadenopathy that is caused by an infection or inflammatory condition.
Other common symptoms of a lymphatic disorder that warrant evaluation by a healthcare professional include swelling in the arms, legs, or groin; weight loss; fever; and night sweats. You should know that enlarged lymph nodes are not dangerous in the majority of cases – they are the body's way of fighting an infection.