Benefits of Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic massage is a gentle touch therapy that promotes health and aids recovery from a variety of conditions and illnesses. This powerful, yet subtle, technique can reduce or prevent fluid retention, enhance the removal of toxins from body tissues, and support the immune system.
Boost Overall Wellness
The lymph system plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Lymph is a fluid rich in immune cells that fight viruses, cancer, and bacteria. It circulates through the body, transporting these cells where they are most needed. Lymph passes through lymph nodes, which produce new immune cells and filters out toxins. Whenever you feel swollen glands while sick, that is your lymphatic filtration gathering waste and toxins for elimination.
The light, rhythmic touch of lymphatic massage enhances the circulation of lymph fluid, which improves the flow of immune cells. Much like a water filtration system, increasing lymph flow makes it easier for the body to fend off disease and infection. Increased lymph circulation also helps reduce the body’s load of wastes and toxins. Clean, flowing lymph frees up resources that your body can use for tissue repair and maintenance, keeping you healthy and in balance.
Feel Better Physically and Mentally
Stress, illness, excess fluid from infection, and blockages or injury to lymph vessels can all impair lymphatic function. This can leave you feeling fatigued, achy, or ill. Lymphatic massage is extraordinarily effective in helping to restore lymph function, which can address several health challenges.
The gentle touch of lymphatic massage soothes the nervous system, relieving both mental and physical tension. This can improve sleep and reduce depression or anxiety. As you relax, even the grip of pain can lessen. Lymphatic massage can also reduce the persistent discomforts of painful conditions, such as arthritis, backache, and headaches.
Reduce Swelling and More
Whether swelling is because of injury, surgery, cancer treatment, or an illness such as sinusitis or fibromyalgia, lymphatic massage can reduce pain and inflammation associated with fluid retention. Along with Medical attention, it is also very effective for lymphedema, the severe and chronic accumulation of lymphatic fluid. It is very important to inform your therapist if you have lymphedema or a damaged lymphatic system that he or she can adjust your treatment.
“Since I started having lymphatic drainage on a regular basis, I sleep better at night. My eyes and face have a healthy glow that they haven’t had in a long time, and I feel more energetic.” – Sheryl, Mason, Ohio
Supports Skin Care and Cosmetic Surgery
Patients use lymphatic massage in facial treatments to reduce congestion and puffiness. It is also very effective in decreasing swelling and bruising from cosmetic surgery, such as breast reduction or implants, liposuction, and laser surgery. Spas and skin care specialists use the technique to reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins, wrinkles, rosacea, and acne.
Breast Care
Lymphatic massage can reduce pain and swelling following the removal of lymph nodes during breast cancer treatment. It can also reduce the discomfort of breasts and nipples during and after pregnancy. If received regularly, it may even enhance the function of healthy breast tissue.
“The treatment was very relaxing, very comfortable. This was the most incredible, fantastic thing I’ve ever done for my health. It has helped my lymphedema tremendously. It put me back to feeling like a normal person.” – Fran, Breast Cancer Survivor, Ohio
What is a session like?
Because many lymph vessels are just under the skin, moving the lymph requires a very light touch, barely the weight of a teaspoon of water. Practitioners use flat hands and finger pads in painless, rhythmic movements gentle enough to be described as “feather touch.”
Most people experience lymphatic massage as deeply relaxing and some fall asleep. It is possible to feel lightheaded following a session, so you may wish to rest for an hour or two afterward. It is important to drink extra water after each session to replenish your fluids. Many people report feeling rejuvenated, invigorated, or simply lighter in the hours or days following a session.
Your therapist’s qualifications
Lymphatic massage is an advanced technique with various levels of training. It is being used by massage therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses, and others. All Battle Born Home Health practitioners are certified in lymphatic massage and your practitioner will be happy to answer questions about his or her training and experience.
For wellness and recovery
People are looking to lymphatic massage to reduce the effects of stress, aid recovery from surgery, and enhance skin care. It is being used more and more to relieve the discomforts of swelling. But beyond its restorative uses for specific conditions, this gentle yet powerful technique can be key for anyone wishing to relax, rejuvenate, and improve overall health and well-being.
