A lymphatic drainage massage is a two-step process: Clearing: This step releases lymphatic fluid in your tissues. Reabsorption: This step moves your lymphatic fluid to your lymph nodes.
The pumping action of deep breathing will help the lymphatic system transport the toxins into the blood before they are detoxified by the liver.
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.
Lymphatic fluid flows from the lower extremities -- the liver and intestine -- to the thoracic duct, which is the main channel for lymphatic drainage. In most people the thoracic duct drains into the subclavian vein on the left side.
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 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 is a clear-to-white fluid made of: White blood cells, especially lymphocytes, the cells that attack bacteria in the blood and body tissues. Fluid from the intestines called chyle, which contains proteins and fats.
The major lymphatic vessels are: the thoracic duct: It begins near the lower part of the spine and collects lymph from the pelvis, abdomen, and lower chest. The thoracic duct runs up through the chest and empties into the blood through a large vein near the left side of the neck.
Lymph is a fluid similar in composition to blood plasma. It is derived from blood plasma as fluids pass through capillary walls at the arterial end. As the interstitial fluid begins to accumulate, it is picked up and removed by tiny lymphatic vessels and returned to the blood.
The lymph fluid carries the waste products and destroyed bacteria back into the bloodstream. The liver or kidneys then remove these from the blood. The body passes them out with other body waste, through bowel movements (poo) or urine (pee).
Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage, relieves swelling that happens when medical treatment or illness blocks your lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage massage involves gently manipulating specific areas of your body to help lymph move to an area with working 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.
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.
The main lymph nodes are in the neck, armpits, and groin. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) can go where Deep Tissue massage and Swedish cannot - into swollen areas. Lymphatic drainage can leave you feeling exhausted.
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 (lim-FAT-ik) vessels, tissues, organs, and glands work together to drain a watery fluid called lymph from throughout the body.
The tissues and organs that produce, store, and carry white blood cells that fight infections and other diseases. This system includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, and lymphatic vessels (a network of thin tubes that carry lymph and white blood cells).
A doctor may diagnose lymphorrhea after a patient reports an open wound or skin that has begun to leak. The hallmark of lymphorrhea is the discharge of a light amber-colored fluid that flows, trickles, or beads up from the skin around an opening in the skin.
After receiving this massage, you may receive some minor side effects for the next few days. Your urine may become darker and smelly due to the stimulation of the kidneys. Your urination frequency may also increase throughout the day because your body is ridding itself of all the excess toxins.
Chyle leaks are when your lymphatic vessels become damaged, and chyle — a fluid — leaks into nearby tissues, causing swelling and other symptoms. Most chyle leaks occur as rare but serious complications of surgery. Healthcare providers often treat chyle leaks with diet, rest and medication.
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.