Our body works well when all the different systems perform their functions in a cohesive manner. The immune system protects us against diseases, the nervous system transmits messages from our brain to the rest of our body, and so on. The lymphatic system is responsible for removing waste and toxins from our body.

UNDERSTANDING THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

A lymph is a fluid that contains water, white blood cells, protein, waste products, and toxins. The lymph flows through narrow vessels, known as the lymphatic vessels. All the vessels are connected by lymph nodes. This is the station where the lymph is filtered, and all the toxins and impurities are removed from it.

However, sometimes, this lymphatic system can become blocked. The accumulation of excess lymph in the lymph nodes can disrupt the smooth flow of the lymphatic system and cause swelling in the armpits, neck, thighs, breasts, or groin area. This condition is known as lymphoedema or lymphedema.

Even though lymphedema is a life-long condition and is incurable, it can be controlled, and the symptoms, such as swelling, can be treated.

The manual treatment of lymphedema involves what’s known as the lymphatic drainage massage.

WHAT IS A LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE?

A lymphatic drainage massage is a full body massage that helps remove a blockage in the lymphatic system. The massage is given by a qualified practitioner and is specifically adapted to target the patient’s affected areas.

The areas that are swollen are gently massaged to remove the blockage from the lymph nodes. But because the blockage can move from one lymph node to another, therapists have to massage the whole body to ensure that the lymph does not accumulate in other areas of the body and cause swelling.

To drain out the blockage, the whole body of the patient is massaged gently. The therapist can use a series of hand movements and techniques like; compressing, stretching, gliding, and cupping to remove the blockage and stimulate the lymph flow.

As the vessels are compressed, the blockage is pushed out. The lymph regains its smooth flow without getting trapped in the surrounding tissues or lymph nodes.

BENEFITS OF A LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

• Removes blockages from the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues
• Removes swelling from the affected areas
• Stimulates lymph flow
• Impurity, toxins, and waste is removed from all parts of the body
• Helps the patient feel calm and relaxed
• Improves the immune system (white blood cells are delivered to the circulatory system)
• Expedites the body’s healing process

Initially, it was believed that the lymphatic drainage massage was just for the patients who suffer from lymphedema. But now, lymphatic drainage massages are becoming popular all over the world as a therapy that detoxifies the body, calms the nerves, and promotes well-being.

Moreover, during non-invasive fat reduction services like vacuum therapy and body cavitation, the melted fat is naturally drained out of the body through the lymphatic system. Therefore, the lymphatic drainage massage improves the removal of unwanted substances, like fat debris from the body, and expedites the body toning process.