A lymphatic massage is a form of stimulation that helps the lymph fluids move throughout the body. Lymph fluid can build up in certain areas of the body, such as the legs, and cause swelling. Lymphatic drainage massage helps drain the lymph nodes and improves circulation. Lymphatic massage can benefit people with edemas, arthritis, or even insomnia. Below, we describe how the procedure works, how it helps, and how to prepare. 

Prevents Severe  Health Conditions

Lymphatic drainage is the process of "draining" the accumulated fluid from the lymph nodes using massage. Initially, our body is able to cope with the stagnation but after inflammation, trauma, surgery, or a sedentary lifestyle, it is difficult for our organism to regulate lymph outflow. Lack of lymph circulation can cause infections, lymphedema (severe tissue edema) or even tumors.  To prevent lymph stagnation, fluid outflow techniques are needed. In addition, lymphatic massage helps athletes recover after serious strain.

Massage stimulates the lymphatic system to deliver fresh nutrients to the cells which awaken the skin and make it glow. There is hardware lymphatic drainage, which is carried out with the influence of current, press or vacuum, and manual stimulation.

Systemic Massage  Will Bring the Desired Effect

Lymphatic drainage massage has many advantages. It helps recover from a cold with complications or the flu, accelerate metabolism, reduce swelling of the body, reduces post-acne scarring, and insomnia. Many specialists offer it as arthritis of the knee or ankle pain treatment. Doctors also state that lymphatic massage might be more effective than connective tissue massage in relieving symptoms of stiffness and depression in people living with fibromyalgia.

The procedure itself is divided into three stages. During the first preparatory stage, the therapist cleans the working surface of the body and applies the oil. Then the therapist warms the skin with stroking movements and slightly presses on the lymph nodes, removing stagnation, and then distributes the fluid in the body through massage. In the end, if necessary, the doctor removes the remaining oils after the massage that has not been absorbed by the skin.

For lymphatic drainage massage to be effective, one procedure is not enough. The amount of procedures necessary depends on the treated zone. If you want to slightly correct the figure and remove subtle bumps on the skin, 3-6 procedures will be enough. Sometimes 9 or 12 procedures may be necessary.

If you want to feel the effect of the procedure, but do not want to visit specialists then try care products such as scooters, dry body brushes, and gouache plates. The effect of their use will not be as fast, but it will still be beneficial . Applying them every evening for 10-15 minutes, you will achieve a more uniform distribution of lymph and improve skin health.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Contraindications

Circulatory system diseases

With the fragility of blood vessels or thrombophlebitis, performing lymphatic drainage risks causing damage to the body.

Skin infections

You risk spreading infection through the body or infecting a massage therapist who performs the procedure.

Lymph node diseases

With lymph node diseases the body may not cope with the additional strain.

The presence of malignant tumors

Before the procedure, you should get rid of cancer and undergo a recovery course.

Menstruation

During menstruation, fluid is retained in the body so lymphatic drainage can only increase swelling and menstrual pain.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

Before the procedure, you should prepare the body. Do not drink alcoholic drinks a few days before the massage as they increase swelling. When choosing a time for lymphatic drainage, keep in mind that the technique is intended for relaxation and a slight loss of concentration. You should not go for a massage if you plan on doing strenuous activity for the body or mind after. 

For a couple of hours before and after the procedure, try to avoid eating so as not to feel unwell during the massage. You may still drink water. Before the massage and the next day after it, drink warm drinks without sugar so you can maintain the effect of lymphatic drainage.