What is lymphatic drainage massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a type of massage that focuses specifically on the lymphatic system. It is primarily used to help reduce swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid. It uses specialised, gentle massage techniques to encourage lymph fluid to move away from swollen areas towards areas where the lymphatic system is working normally. This type of massage is often referred to as ‘manual lymphatic drainage’, though this is actually just one form of this therapy:
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD): this uses the hands and is conducted by a therapist.
- Simple lymphatic drainage (SLD): this is a form of self-massage that can be taught by a lymphoedema specialist. It usually involves gently massaging areas without lymphoedema to encourage lymph fluid to drain away from the affected area.
Lymphatic drainage massage is most commonly used to help manage lymphoedema. This is swelling that develops when the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively, causing it to build up in the body's tissues.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema can be primary or secondary. Primary lymphoedema is caused by genetic changes that affect the development of the lymphatic system, while secondary lymphoedema develops when a previously normal lymphatic system becomes damaged or disrupted.
Some possible causes of secondary lymphoedema include:
- cancer surgery
- radiotherapy
- infections, such as cellulitis
- psoriasis
- atopic eczema
- varicose veins
- deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- obesity
- immobility.
Symptoms of lymphoedema
- aching or heaviness in the area
- restricted or difficult movements
- repeated skin infections
- hard, tight or thickened skin
- fluid leaking through the skin
- wart-like growths on the skin.
If you suspect that you have lymphoedema, we recommend consulting your GP or a lymphoedema specialist for further advice.
How can lymphatic drainage massage help?
Lymphatic drainage massage is primarily used to help manage swelling caused by lymphoedema. It uses gentle massage techniques to encourage lymph fluid to move away from swollen areas towards areas where it can drain more effectively.
For people with lymphoedema, manual lymphatic drainage may be used alongside other treatments, such as compression garments, exercise and skin care.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. It helps the body fight infection and drains excess fluid from tissues.
Lymph nodes are located throughout our bodies, including in our groin, neck and armpits. Lymph fluid travels through our body via lymph vessels before draining into the bloodstream. The lymph fluid is important as it carries waste products back into the bloodstream, which the kidneys and liver remove. Our body then expels these through urine and bowel movements.
As well as preventing illness, the lymphatic system helps to balance fluid levels in the body. If you are genetically predisposed to lymphoedema or there is damage to the lymphatic system, this can cause fluid to collect in parts of the body. If the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively, it can build up in the tissues and cause swelling.
How does lymphatic drainage massage work?
Lymphatic drainage massage uses slow, rhythmic, skin-stretching techniques. This helps move lymph fluid from swollen areas of the body to areas that are not swollen.
Simple lymphatic drainage is a form of self-massage that can be taught by a lymphoedema specialist. It uses gentle movements and is usually performed on areas without lymphoedema to encourage lymph fluid to drain away from the affected area. Your specialist can show you the appropriate technique to use at home.
What to expect from a lymphatic drainage massage
During a lymphatic drainage massage, your therapist will usually have you lie down. If working on the head or neck, you’ll be seated. Sessions may include breathing exercises to support lymphatic drainage.
Your therapist will then use gentle massage techniques to encourage lymph fluid to drain. No oils or lotions are used. This should not be painful, but you may feel some discomfort in the areas where you have experienced swelling.
After treatment, the therapist may bandage the area, or you may be advised to wear a compression garment. The number of lymphatic drainage massage sessions needed will vary from person to person and depend on your individual needs.
How often you need treatment depends on your individual needs and the amount and type of swelling. A lymphoedema specialist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
When should I have a lymphatic drainage massage?
As mentioned, lymphatic drainage massage is most commonly used to help manage lymphoedema. Swelling in the legs and ankles can be common during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and considering lymphatic drainage massage, speak to your GP or midwife first to check whether it is suitable for you.
As lymphatic drainage is a very specific type of massage, a Swedish massage may be better suited to you if you’re looking to reduce stress or maintain wellbeing.
Who should not have lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage massage may not be suitable for everyone. Speak to your doctor or a lymphoedema specialist before having treatment if you have a health condition or are unsure whether it is suitable for you.
Lymphatic drainage may not be recommended if:
- you have an infection or inflammation in the swollen area
- you have cancer in the affected area
- you have heart problems
- you have a blood clot.
Finding a lymphatic drainage therapist
If you feel you’d benefit from lymphatic drainage massage, you can find a qualified massage therapist near you on Therapy Directory. Take the time to browse our lymphatic drainage massage therapists so you can find a therapist who is right for you.
Disclaimer: At Therapy Directory, we verify that massage practitioners have qualifications and insurance, or membership of a professional body, associated with massage only. We encourage you to check that they have the specialised skills required to offer lymphatic drainage massage specifically.
