What’s a lymphatic drainage massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage (also known as manual lymphatic draining) is a gentle massage that relieves lymphedema-related swelling in the legs and arms. People who have had breast cancer surgery often experience lymphedema.
Lymphedema is when fluid remains in your tissues after your cardiovascular system has sent blood to your tissues.
Lymph is the remaining fluid. Your lymphatic system normally collects your lymph through a network lymph vessels and lymph nodes. If your lymphatic system is disrupted, lymph can build up in your arms or legs and cause swelling.
Massage therapists use lymphatic drainage techniques to move lymph from the tissues to the lymph nodes. This reduces swelling.
Are lymphatic drainage massages effective?
The effectiveness of Lymphatic drainage massage in torronto is still being investigated by healthcare providers. Lymphatic drainage massages are beneficial for people 60 years and older, according to some studies.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
Two steps are required to perform a lymphatic drainage massage.
- Clearing – This is a step that releases lymphatic fluid from your tissues.
- Reabsorption – This is where your lymphatic fluid moves to your lymph nodes.
Is there another way to drain lymphatic fluid from my tissue?
A mechanical process may be beneficial for some people. You can use this method to place a sleeve over the affected arm or leg. Attached to the sleeve, a pneumatic pump pulsates to help your lymph drain from your tissues to your lymphnodes.
BENEFITS / RISKS
What conditions can lymphatic drainage massage benefit?
After breast cancer surgery, lymphatic drainage massages can be used to reduce swelling and lymphedema. Lymphatic drainage massages can also be beneficial for the following conditions:
- Rheumatoid arthritis – This is an ongoing condition that causes joint stiffness, swelling, and pain.
- Fibromyalgia – This condition causes joint and muscle pain.
- Chronic vein insufficiency – This is when your leg veins stop working properly, making it difficult for blood to return from your legs to your heart.
- Lipedema – This is when your lymphatic system becomes blocked and you develop lymphedema.
Are there any health risks with lymphatic drainage massages?
Lymphatic drainage massage can be used safely to reduce lymphedema. Some conditions or circumstances may not warrant lymphatic drainage massage.
- A heart condition exists.
- You are suffering from kidney disease.
- There are blood clots.
- An infection is present.
If you are concerned that lymphatic drainage massage could affect your physical health, talk to your doctor.
RECOVERY and OUTLOOK
Can lymphatic drainage massages help my lymphedema disappear?
Lymphatic drainage massages may not produce immediate results. You might not see immediate results after several sessions. Talk to your healthcare provider about other treatments.
How do I drain my lymphatic system by myself?
Discuss lymphatic drainage massage with your healthcare provider. You can get information from your healthcare provider to determine if lymphatic drainage massage is right for you.
What happens if I feel sick after a lymphatic drain massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is rarely a problem. However, some people complain of nausea, headaches, and fatigue. Ask your healthcare provider for help with managing side effects.
