What is Lymphatic Drainage?
Sometimes more lymphatic fluid can build up in the tissues than the lymph system or circulatory system can accommodate. Lymphatic drainage massage – or more formally as oedema massage in clinical circles – is a specific massage technique that assists in the reduction/elimination of this lymphatic fluid build-up.
What does the Lymphatic system do?
Nourishes cells
The lymphatic system is secondary circulatory system in our bodies which cleans and nourish cells. Lymph is a clear fluid containing nutrients and oxygen similar to blood but without the red and white corpuscles, and is deposited around cells to keep them nourished.
Removes waste and toxins
The cells discard waste and toxins into the lymphatic fluid which is then moved away via the lymphatic vessels to lymph nodes. These then filter the lymph fluid and release it back into the lymphatic circulatory system. Notably lymphatic fluid only ever flows in one direction, which is away from the cells and towards the heart.
What goes wrong with lymphatic circulation?
The lymphatic system is dependant on muscle & body movements to circulate lymphatic fluid, unlike the blood circulatory system which is pumped around its network by the heart. The lymphatic system also relies on the body to be in good condition with sufficient fluid intake, good nutrition to function correctly. When there is a lack of movement, or the body is not in optimal health, lymphatic circulation is impeded leading to congested, swollen and often painful limbs.
What is lymphoedema ?
Also referred to as ‘Lympodema‘, this painful and disabling condition is due to a congested lymphatic circulatory system.
The image right courtesy the Mayo Foundation shows a person suffering from an enlarged right leg due to lymphoedema. Apart from the obvious inconvenience, this is a very painful condition.
Fortunately lymphoedema can be effectively treated with lymphatic drainage massage for a reasonably prompt and drug-free relief.
Mayo Clinic notes that lymphoedema symptoms may also include:
- Swelling of part or all of your arm or leg, including fingers or toes
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Restricted range of motion
- Aching or discomfort
- Recurring infections
- Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)
How does lymphatic drainage massage help?
Lymphatic drainage massage gently coaxes movement of the lymph reducing the swelling and providing relief from the pain. Massage strokes direct congested lymphatic areas into the correct direction to reduce the localised pressure or oedema.
A number of conditions typically respond well to a lymphatic drainage massage.
- Swollen ankles and legs
- Headaches
- Bruising
- During and after chemotherapy
- After removal of lymph nodes
If there is a medical condition involved you should always consult your Doctor first
Lymphatic Self Help
- Exercise and yoga assists your lymphatic circulation
- Keep yourself well hydrated
- Some foods such as fennel, celery and parsley are believed to help lymphatic circulation
- Essential oils including lemon, geranium, and rosemary and juniper are stimulating and cleansing for the lymphatic system