April 8, 2021

What Are the Medical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Treatments?

Lymphatic drainage treatment refers to a type of massage that targets the lymphatic system. Specifically, it relies on gentle, rhythmic circular strokes to promote the natural drainage of the lymph or the lymphatic fluid. This, in turn, draws toxins and waste materials away from the bodily tissues, boosting the immune system and providing relief for various symptoms and health conditions. Lymphatic drainage treatment also goes by several other monikers, including:

Lymphatic drainage massage
Lymphatic massage
Manual drainage massage
Manual lymph drainage (MLD)
Decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT)

Manual drainage massage is typically used to treat lymphedema, which arises from a blockage in the lymph system. But, this massage therapy is also extremely beneficial to a vast range of medical conditions – from chronic pain to stress to everything else in between. Find out more about why you should get lymphatic drainage treatment – and exactly how it can help.

Top Medical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

Lymphatic drainage massage can be helpful for several conditions, including:

Lymphedema
Swelling or edema
Rheumatoid arthritis
Fibromyalgia
Migraine
Chronic pain
Stress
Fatigue
Insomnia
Skin problems

You may be wondering: how exactly does lymphatic massage help? To answer this question, it’s important to have a working knowledge of the lymphatic system first. Essentially, it’s a part of the immune system and consists of a network of tissues, vessels, and organs. It’s responsible for removing wastes, toxins, and other unwanted materials from the body, as well as maintaining fluid balance and fighting off infections.

To do this, the lymphatic system circulates a colorless, watery fluid called “lymph” through the body, relying on the movements and contractions of the smooth muscles for transport. This process is similar to the way the circulatory system circulates and transports blood through the body. The lymph is essentially excess fluid from the body’s cells and tissues. It’s collected by the lymph system and later returned to the bloodstream, ultimately recirculating through the body.

Some conditions, however, can interfere with the normal flow of the lymph, resulting in the buildup of lymphatic fluid, bacteria, and other substances in some parts of the body, usually in the arms or legs. This can lead to swelling – otherwise known as “lymphedema.”

This is where lymphatic drainage therapy can help. The gentle massage and light pressure do a great job in reducing swelling and promoting better circulation throughout the lymph system. This leads to a more effective absorption, transportation, and removal of toxins, viruses, bacteria, proteins, and other metabolic wastes, fortifying your defenses against diseases.

Below, we give you a quick rundown of some of the health conditions that may benefit from lymphatic drainage massage.

1. Lymphedema

As previously mentioned, lymphedema refers to the swelling in the arms or legs. However, it can also occur in the head, abdomen, and genitals. Aside from causing pain and discomfort, this life-long condition can make it difficult to move your limbs as well.

Lymphedema typically develops due to infections. People may also develop it due to conditions or treatments that remove or cause damage to the lymph nodes. It’s an especially common complication of breast cancer treatment. In the United States alone, over 3 million breast cancer survivors are suffering from this chronic condition.

2. Swelling or Edema

Lymphatic massage can help not only with lymphedema but also other types of swelling that are not related to the lymphatic system. This is otherwise known as “edema” or “peripheral edema” if the swelling develops on the hands or lower legs. It can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

Injury
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes
Sitting or standing for extended periods
Reaction to certain medications
Inflammation or infections
Underlying conditions

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints. The severity of RA varies from person to person, but if left untreated, it can cause disabling pain or even loss of joint function. Besides joint pain, other hallmark symptoms of this condition include swelling and stiffness in the joints. Lymphatic massage can help manage the symptoms of RA, making your day-to-day life more bearable.

4. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain. It’s also commonly accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory problems, depression, and anxiety, among many others. This condition has no cure and its root cause remains unknown, but it can be managed with medications, exercise, relaxation, and other stress-reduction techniques. With that said, lymphatic drainage may be a powerful adjunct treatment for fibromyalgia, addressing both its physical and physiological symptoms.

5. Migraine

Migraine is a far cry from regular headaches. It’s much more severe and can be debilitating, causing intense throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation. To make matters worse, bouts of migraine can also last from hours to days, and may come with other uncomfortable symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

While migraine has no cure, it can be managed with medications and other home remedies. Some people are also seeking alternative forms of therapy, and many have found success with lymphatic drainage.

6. Chronic Pain

Aside from RA, fibromyalgia, and migraine, there are plenty of other conditions that can cause chronic pain, including back pain, multiple sclerosis, cancer, and nerve damage. Sometimes, the pain is mild and tolerable, but other times, it can be incapacitating, interfering with your everyday activities. Fortunately, lymphatic drainage massage can help take the edge off aches and other bodily discomforts, as well as reduce the intensity and frequency of the pain.

7. Stress

Stress refers to both emotional and physical tension. Essentially, it’s the body’s natural reaction to pressure or challenges. With that said, it’s normal to feel stressed at one point or another. But when the feelings of anger, frustration, or anxiety persist, you may already be suffering from chronic stress, which can lead to various health problems.

Manual lymphatic drainage does a fantastic job in reducing stress and providing relaxation. Remember, it’s a type of massage first and foremost. With the light, gentle strokes, it won’t be long before your tight muscles loosen – all while obtaining that much-needed mental repose.

8. Fatigue

Fatigue refers to the feeling of constant tiredness or overall weakness. It’s not just a physical thing, however. When you have fatigue, you’ll have to deal with a lack of motivation and energy as well. Furthermore, it can be mild to severe, and is typically associated with underlying health problems.

People experiencing fatigue may benefit from lymphatic drainage. For one, it can help the immune system recover faster, combating the general feeling of sickness, tiredness, and heaviness. On top of that, this treatment can also significantly improve a person’s physiological and psychological well-being, making it a powerful remedy against the symptoms of fatigue.

9. Insomnia

Are you suffering from insomnia? You’ll be glad to know that manual lymphatic drainage may be able to help you sleep more soundly at night. Again, this is largely thanks to its positive effects on your physical and mental health.

Plus, it’s also worth noting that insomnia can be caused by some of the ailments mentioned earlier, such as fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and stress. So, by tackling those underlying conditions, you may finally have that well-deserved sleep.

10. Skin Problems

If the lymph system gets blocked or damaged, it won’t be able to expel toxins and other unwanted substances properly. This, in turn, can have detrimental effects on the skin. Specifically, it may trigger acne, scaling skin, loss of elasticity, or even premature aging. Hence, by assisting with the drainage of lymph fluids, you can address a wide range of dermatological conditions.

As a bonus, the act of massaging can help rejuvenate the skin, making it brighter, smoother, and softer to the touch. It can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Experience the Magic of Lymphatic Drainage Massage Today

Practically everyone is familiar with the circulatory system, but very few people know about the lymphatic system, which plays a critical role in keeping you healthy and protected against illnesses. Unfortunately, in some cases, the lymphatic system may be compromised, resulting in unwanted fluid buildup and swelling.

Manual lymph drainage, which employs gentle, rhythmic massage movements, can help reduce the swelling. More than that, it will also enable the lymphatic system to perform its tasks better, boosting your immune system and overall health and well-being. Plus, it’s beneficial for people suffering from other physical and mental discomforts that are not directly associated with the lymph system.

Although packed with therapeutic benefits, it’s important to remember that lymphatic drainage therapy is not for everyone. If you’re diagnosed with certain conditions, such as infections, blood clots, kidney problems, or circulatory problems, this treatment is not recommended. For best results, you may also want to promote lymphatic system function by having a healthy lifestyle, including staying well-hydrated, eating nourishing meals, and exercising regularly.

Finally, to maximize the benefits of the treatment, make sure that it is only performed by a well-trained and certified therapist or specialist. Otherwise, it may only do more harm than good. This is why it’s critical to book the treatment in a reputable spa or clinic, which guarantees that only qualified professionals will be performing the massage. Here at Solea Medical Spa & Beauty Lounge, you’re in capable hands. Learn more about how we do lymphatic drainage treatments or contact us today to schedule your very first session.

#Lymphatic Drainage Therapy