A lymphatic drainage massage helps to ease all that fluid away, pushing it towards the lymph nodes where it can be eliminated. This is one of many reasons you may leave your treatment feeling lighter and more energised. If you suffer with heavy legs, this is a big benefit.
Utilizing rhythmic hand strokes, your practitioner will restimulate your lymphatic system and improve the flow of lymph fluid in your body. This causes you to feel remarkably relaxed during the session.
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.
Common signs and symptoms of lymphedema can include: Swelling in part of the body (such as your breast, chest, shoulder, arm, or leg) Skin feeling tight or hard, changing in texture, looking red, or feeling hot. New aching, tingling, numbness, or other discomfort in the area.
A patient will have to feel tired afterwards so it is better to take the time off the day and just do nothing but lying down and relaxing your muscles. It is also better to rehydrate yourself because a lot of times after the session some patients complain of thirstiness.
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.
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that are part of the circulatory system and that help the body remove toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.
Collecting ducts: Lymphatic vessels empty the lymph into the right lymphatic duct and left lymphatic duct (also called the thoracic duct). These ducts connect to the subclavian vein, which returns lymph to your bloodstream.
Depending on the severity, most cases should begin to see results after 1-2 sessions. Frequency is dependent on the clients goals and how congested the lymph system is.
The pro recommends massaging the arms, legs, and stomach up to 3 to 4 times a week at home. "However, when done by a professional," she explains, "1 or 2 times a week is enough, but each body is different."
Expect to have an increased need to urinate.
The whole purpose of a manual lymphatic drainage massage is to help balance fluid and remove waste/toxins from the body, and how does that happen, through your urine. The increased need to urinate is actually a really really good thing.
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.
Secondary lymphoedema
Symptoms may include a feeling of tightness and heaviness in a limb, altered sensation, tenderness, reduced range of movement. The oedema is initially pitting, however, over time it becomes non-pitting. The skin can ooze a clear or yellow fluid, and/or can have a foul-smelling odour.
Having water after a massage is beneficial for the lymphatic system which is a major part of the bodies immune system, and thus will help reduce the symptoms of a cold or flu.
Drink 2-4 glasses of water after your massage to help properly flush out your lymphatic system. Drinking water helps flush your kidneys which are responsible for getting rid of toxins.
All of the fluids and its contents that leak out into the tissues (as well as waste products formed in the tissues, and bacteria that enter them through our skin) are removed from them by the lymphatic system.
Physical activity encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and Tai chi all might help to encourage the lymph to move. Pelvic floor exercises may also help.
“All these things stimulate the lymphatic flow.” The contraction of your muscles becomes the pump that helps the fluid get around your body. Exercise can help the lymphatic system flow more effectively and potentially help prevent infections and other diseases, like cancer.
The feeling of having a stuffy head, congestion, lots of mucous on waking in the morning, or dental infections might also point to a backed up lymphatic system.
Choose a time that works for you
In the morning, lymphatic drainage is ideal for helping to reduce puffiness in the face after waking up. It also helps to prep your skin for your daytime skincare products, before you start the day.
Results can last up to 10 days, depending on your metabolism and lifestyle.