Rufus R. Noble The immune system’s function is largely dependent on the lymphatic system. It fights infection and maintains fluid balance within the cells and around your body.
The lymphatic system does not reside in one organ but comprises a network involving small lymph nodes connecting to other tubes throughout the body.
These tiny structures are located in the neck, armpits, and groin and act as filters to remove harmful and toxic substances. These cells also contain cells that aid the body in fighting infection.
Fluids can build up in the lymph nodes and cause swelling. This is most commonly due to bacterial or viral infections. Patients undergoing cancer treatment may have lymph node problems.
We will be discussing lymphatic drainage massage and how it can reduce swelling and move more fluid through the lymphatic system.
What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapy?
Although it’s called lymphatic drainage massage therapy, it’s more of a manipulation technique than a traditional massage.
Lymphatic massage is often considered a form of detox therapy. It involves various light stretching, cupping, and compression movements that help lymph fluid flow through the body. This message should only be performed by a trained professional. It can also have many therapeutic benefits.
This massage technique can be used on all parts of the lymphatic system. It involves two clear processes: clearing and reabsorption.
Clearing creates a vacuum in the lymph node, which then prepares it for more fluid through reabsorption. This process is painless and non-invasive and can last up to 20 minutes.
This type of treatment is generally offered to those not suffering from a blockage of the lymph nodes in their neck or head. Under skilled practitioners, you should feel light pressure. The movements should be slow and rhythmic.
You can teach individuals how to perform a manual Massage on their own, which can provide temporary relief.
Lymphatic drainage massage should not be used if you have serious conditions like inflammation, cancer, heart disease, or a blood clot diagnosis.
A Short History of Lymphatic Massage Therapy
It might surprise you to learn that lymphatic drainage massage therapy dates back nearly 100 years. Emil Vodder, who suffered from poor health during the 1930s, was the original inventor of the lymphatic drainage massage therapy we now see.
Nearly 20 years later, doctors began to notice the benefits of lymphoedema. This is a chronic condition that causes swelling. Vodder used his massage technique to aid his patients.
Emil Vodder’s lymphatic drain massage therapy gained popularity in the USA only after the 1970s. The range of possible health issues it could help was not yet realized.
In the 1970s, German professors Michael Foeldi and Etelka Foeldi established the first clinic to offer lymphatic drainage massage. They not only provided treatments but also trained more people to do it. Lymphatic drainage massage is now more common in mainstream medicine and integrative health clinics.
Benefits of Lymphatic massage therapy and Whom It Can Help
It is connected to our immune system, so dysfunction in the lymphatic can impact our overall health. Modern times see manipulating the lymph nodes as a way to improve skin and promote general wellbeing.
A sedentary lifestyle can hurt the lymph system’s ability to function. It requires movement and activity to stimulate action, which is not the case with blood vessels.
Research suggests manual lymphatic massage can be beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia or recovery from sports injuries. However, more research is needed. This can happen for several reasons, including trauma, medication, and infection.
Lymphoedema is a side effect of cancer treatment. The therapy has been proven to be effective in relieving this condition. Massage therapy can also treat various conditions, including rheumatoid and chronic fatigue, as well as recovery from surgery, edema, and digestive disorders.
