The lymphatic system has a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. And, when it gets blocked, it can lead to profound health implications. The lymphatic drainage massage is among the form of massage therapy that has become popular due to the benefits that it can give. It plays a crucial role in improving the flow and drainage of our lymph around the body. This post will feature how the lymphatic system work and the effects of lymphatic drainage massage.

What is a lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. It is a network of tissues, organs, vessels working together to move the fluid known as the lymph to go back into the bloodstream. Just like our blood, the lymph circulates through the body.

The lymphatic system is responsible for maintaining the fluid balance in the body. Also, it plays a significant role in absorbing fats and fat-soluble nutrients within our digestive system. And, as part of the immune system, it can defend the body against bacteria and intruders.

Did you know that there are about 600 lymph nodes in our body? Yes, it can swell due to the build of lymph fluid, bacteria, other organisms, and immune system cells.

What are the common conditions that affect the lymphatic system?

Blocked, infected inflamed, or cancerous lymph nodes can result in various types of conditions. Some of the common diseases are as follows:

• Lymphadenopathy – There are enlarged lymph nodes that may cause infection, inflammation, or cancer. Among the common disorder that causes this condition are strep throat, mononucleosis, HIV infection, an infected wound.
• Lymphedema – There is swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid in the body. You can observe that the lymph nodes work as a drain to the sink, and so if it is clogged, the fluid can’t flow. It may usually occur in the arms, legs and may also occur in any part of the body.
• Lymphoma – refers to the cancer of the lymphatic system. It can affect others areas and organs of the body.

What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?

Having blocked lymph nodes can result in severe health implications. The lymphatic drainage massage plays a vital role in the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It’s a form of gentle massage performed by a registered massage therapist.

It was first developed by Danish physicians Emil and Estrid Vodde as a form of treatment for lymphedema, and now, it provides a wide range of benefits.

And, below are the main benefits of lymphatic drainage massage.

• It can speed the body’s recovery as it improves our immunity and helping to fight infection.
• The lymphatic drainage massage serves as a manual pump to reduce water retention. Thus, it can help to flow the fluid around the body.
• Improves your metabolism by supporting to burn off calories more efficiently.
• It speeds up the healing of scar tissue, reduces swelling, and improves skin texture. As the blood flow and circulation improve within the affected areas, it can help break down the toxins that cause skin dimpling.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Part of Relaxing Facial on Spas

Did you know that lymphatic drainage massage is a popular offer on spas? It has become part of the relaxing facial as it gives the following benefits

• Increase circulation in the face that helps to reduce puffiness and prevent the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
• It aids the healing process of patients with skin disorders like rosacea and acne
• Induces relaxation and improve the skin tone and texture

Does lymphatic drainage massage really work?

• A 2007 study shows that Manual lymph massage can reduce the post-operative facial swelling and discomfort after removing the impacted wisdom teeth.
• A randomized controlled trial in 2009 found out that lymphatic drainage massage is more effective than connective tissue massage in reducing the pain of women with fibromyalgia. However, further long-term follow-up of the study is needed.
• A 2015 review based on an evaluation of six trials discovers that lymphatic drainage massage can help to reduce swelling and pain experienced by women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. It also shows that manual lymphatic massage is safe and may offer additional benefits to compression bandaging to reduce swelling. However, this finding still needs to confirm by randomized data.

What conditions would lymphatic massage use as treatment?

Lymphatic drainage massage is ideal for the following conditions.

• Lymphedema
• Fibromyalgia
• Swelling or Edema
• Chronic Pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic sclerosis
• Fatigue
• Stress
• Digestive problems
• Insomnia

Evergreen is Everywhere for Everyone – Let’s Help You Achieve Your Health and Wellness Goals

At Evergreen Rehab & Wellness – Coquitlam, we have Registered Massage Therapists (RMT) that will help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

We don’t only have Registered Massage Therapists in Coquitlam, we also have Registered Massage Therapists in Surrey that are always ready to provide patients in these areas with custom and high-quality care.

Moreover, we also have Registered Massage Therapists in Langley that can help you.