Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Why are we just now hearing about manual lymphatic drainage massage when it has been around for almost a century? With the spike of oncology cases and surgical procedures, this gentle, rhythmic therapeutic massage can make a different in your recovery phase by focusing on helping the body restore balance and flow to a compromised lymphatic system.
Your lymphatic system is part of your immune system and also includes your tonsils, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and even adenoids and mucous membranes in your respiratory and digestive system. Your lymphatic system is also made up of a complex network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes that transport lymphatic fluid from tissues around the body and ultimately recycle back into the bloodstream. You have two drainage ducts on either side of the body that help maintain the overall flow cycle.
Your lymph nodes are found throughout the body including your neck, chest, abdomen, groin and armpits. These nodes have an important function because they can filter out bacteria and cancer cells as well as create white blood cells to fight infection.
Your lymphatic system can directly impact both your cardiovascular system including heart, arteries, capillaries and veins as well as your immune system if the lymphatic system is impaired.
When you encounter a health issue such as surgery, infection or even injury, that can contribute to a lymphatic blockage in the lymphatic system, the body can express challenges like swelling and even pain.
So what can you do to care for your lymphatic system?
The most popular choice is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a light touch, restorative therapeutic massage technique that helps lymphatic fluid move away from the compromised areas of the body, hence increasing lymphatic flow. By applying gentle stretching strokes to the skin in a slow rhythmic cadence, the body receives support to boost our immunity and improve lymph drainage.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage benefits your body by helping to:
increase lymphatic drainage,
boost blood flow,
may stimulate tissue regeneration
reduce interstitial fluid (swelling)
decrease pain
energize the body
may improve surgical results
promote body and mental relaxation
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage has been used by some clients during a detoxification program to help boost immunity while other clients have incorporated regular manual lymphatic drainage massage into post-surgical healing protocol.
Lymphatic massage can be extremely effective after a mastectomy that includes lymph node removal. Losing those lymph nodes can lead to lymphedema that increases swelling in the limbs. By introducing manual lymphatic drainage massage multiple times a week for 2-4 weeks after a surgery can dramatically speed up the healing process of the body.
Manual lymphatic drainage massage is always performed with caution and may be ruled out with those with a history of renal disease or heart disease as increasing the lymph flow can overwhelm these organ systems.
There are a few conditions that may prevent you from signing up for a manual lymphatic massage which include having:
Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Acute infection like staphylococcus or streptococcus
Renal failure
Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Malignant Lymphedema caused by active cancer
Hyperthyroidism
Cardia Arrhythmia
Speak with your MLD therapist if you have any abdominal issues
For lipedema clients, manual lymphatic drainage massage is a wonderful modality to reduce the lumps and bumps of adipose under the skin. This is also true for clients who are in a post surgical recovery period who develop lumps under the skin called fibrosis.
What to expect from manual lymphatic drainage?
Manual lymphatic massage is softer and lighter in touch than a Swedish massage but offers a similar relaxing feeling. You may experience a lightness quality but do not be surprised if you notice a frequency of urination for a short period of time after the massage as your lymphatic system starts to properly flow. You will want to make sure that you stay hydrated with water during the post-massage period.
So, if you are in the Triad area, please reach out to Breathing Prana Wellness with any questions or book online at www.breathingpranawellness.com and schedule your manual lymphatic drainage massage today. Take advantage of any lymphatic massage series offered on the website this month or reach out if you have an upcoming procedure and see how Breathing Prana Wellness can support you.