Our overall health is dependent on our lymphatic system. It can also cause serious health problems if it becomes blocked. Because of its many benefits, lymphatic drain massage has been a popular massage therapy. It is vital in increasing the flow and drainage of Lymph throughout the body. This article will explain how lymphatic systems work and the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage.
What is a lymphatic?
The immune system includes the lymphatic system. It comprises a network that includes tissues, organs, and vessels. The lymphatic system moves the fluid, known as the Lymph, back into the bloodstream. The Lymph circulates throughout the body, just like blood.
The lymphatic system maintains the body’s fluid balance. It is also responsible for absorbing fats and fat-soluble nutrients in our digestive system. It is part of our immune system and can protect us from bacteria and other intruders.
Did you know there are approximately 600 lymph nodes within our body? It can become enlarged due to lymph fluid buildup, bacteria and immune system cells.
What are some common conditions that can affect the lymphatic system and its functioning?
Multiple conditions can be caused by blocked, infected, or cancerous lymph nodes. These are some of the most common diseases:
- Lymphadenopathy is an enlarged lymph node that can cause inflammation, cancer, and infection. This condition can be caused by strep, mononucleosis and HIV infection.
- Lymphedema is swelling caused by the buildup of lymph fluid. As you can see, the lymph nodes act as a drain and a sink for the fluid. If it becomes clogged, it can’t flow. It can occur in the arms, legs, or any other part of the body.
- A lymphoma is a form of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. It can also affect other areas or organs.
What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?
Blockage of lymph nodes can have serious health consequences. Lymphatic drainage massage is vital in moving lymph fluids around your body. This is a gentle massage that a registered masseuse performs.
Here are the main benefits of lymphatic drainage massage.
- It helps to speed up the body’s healing process by increasing our immunity and fighting infection.
- The lymphatic drainage massage acts as a manual pump to decrease water retention. It can also help to move the fluid around the body.
- It increases your metabolism and helps you burn calories more efficiently.
- It helps speed up scar tissue healing, reduces swelling and improves skin texture. It can reduce skin dimpling by increasing blood flow and circulation in the affected areas.
Lymphatic Drainage massage Part of Relaxing Facial at Spas
Did you know that the lymphatic drainage massage is very popular at spas? It is now part of the relaxing facial because it offers the following benefits
- Increase blood circulation to the face, which helps reduce puffiness and prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- It helps patients suffering from skin conditions like acne and rosacea heal faster.
- Relaxation and improvement of skin texture and tone
Is lymphatic drainage massage effective?
- According to a 2007 study, manual lymph massage can help reduce swelling and pain after removing impacted wisdom teeth.
- In 2009, a randomized controlled study found that lymphatic drainage massage was more effective than connective tissue massage for reducing pain in fibromyalgia women. The study needs to be followed up on a long-term basis.
- Based on six studies, a 2015 review found that lymphatic drainage massage can reduce swelling and pain in women suffering from lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. This review also found that manual lymphatic drainage massage may be safer than compression bandaging to decrease swelling. This finding needs to be confirmed by random data.
Under what conditions could lymphatic massage be used?
Lymphatic drainage massage can be used for the following conditions:
- Lymphedema
- Fibromyalgia
- Oedema or swelling
- Chronic pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic sclerosis
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Digestive problems
- Insomnia
