What the heck is Lymphatic Massage?
It is a gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system and moves excess fluid and swelling out of the body. The lymphatic system is responsible for the removal of toxins in the body, and is a large part of our immune health. It is also known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (M.L.D).
Having a lymphatic massage is beneficial for everyone. This type of massage will stimulate the movement of toxins, and create a healthier environment in the body if the lymph is free flowing.
I see many clients for lymphatic massage and each one has a different need. As it is designed to move excess fluid, my clientele consists mostly of clients with a condition called lymphedema. This is visible swelling in the limb(s) as a result of a congested lymphatic system, or the complete removal of lymph nodes in a specific area, making the system inefficient. Cancer survivors and patients seek this type of massage after surgeries, such as mastectomies, as the cancerous lymph nodes have been removed.
Lymphatic massage can help reduce swelling and therefore reduce healing time. This type of massage is beneficial for anyone after any major surgery, including plastic surgery if they are experiencing swelling. A few of my clients love the technique because it just feels good. It is the most analgesic and non-invasive type of massage therapy and so I use it with many of my clients who are palliative to provide them with a gentle, relaxing massage. I even use it with a few clients who are on a detox program or weight loss program, as this type of massage will encourage the removal of toxins and the movement of fat cells.
The body is naturally designed to stimulate the lymphatic system when we move. So being active, even moderately, can help the lymph system from becoming stagnant. Jumping up and down, especially on the trampoline will make your lymph system very happy!
What happens to a stagnant lymphatic system? It can create a toxic environment in the body. The body can develop allergies, sensitivities, and it may feel fatigued and sluggish. This is where Cancer can form if the body harbours the foreign substance for too long. If the lymphatic system is impaired, edema can begin to build up in the limb that is affected. My role is to re-train the lymphatic system to be effective and if pathways have been damaged, I can teach the lymph to flow on a new pathway.
Other ways you can help the lymphatic system is to wear compression stockings or garments to create tension around the limb and it will therefore encourage movement of lymph. This is most important if you will be standing for long periods of time, or traveling by air to prevent any pooling of fluid in the legs.
For more complex cases of lymphedema, I am trained to wrap the affected limb with foam and tensor bandages to encourage effective lymph flow. This wrap is worn for 24 hours and the results are very encouraging for the client. It is also one of my favourite parts of lymphedema therapy. Fun Krista fact, I love to wrap ;)
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