Lymphatic drainage massage is a type of massage therapy that can be beneficial to everyone, not just cancer sufferers. In Adelaide, lymphatic drainage massage is becoming increasingly popular as people discover the many health benefits it can offer.
This blog post will explain the basics of this modified form of massage therapy and explore the various ways it can benefit all types of people. Whether you’re looking for an effective way to reduce stress, improve your circulation, or just feel better overall, a lymphatic drainage massage may be the answer for you.
What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized form of massage that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system. It is a gentle, slow, and rhythmic massage technique that helps move excess lymph fluid out of the body. Lymphatic drainage massage is often used to treat conditions such as lymphoedema, which is swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid in the body’s tissues.
This type of massage reduces inflammation, boosts circulation, and improves lymph flow throughout the body. Lymphatic massage can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite, improve the appearance of skin tone, reduce water retention, improve energy levels, and encourage overall well-being.
Lymphatic drainage massage works by using soft and light pressure with rhythmic circular movements over the affected areas. The massage therapist may use their hands, knuckles, or even a soft brush to perform the massage. During a session, they may work with you in different positions depending on your specific needs.
The massage also includes breathing techniques and stretching exercises to stimulate lymph flow further. This can help to loosen tight areas, reduce swelling, and promote better circulation.
Overall, lymphatic drainage massage is an effective way to promote healing and relaxation in your body. It can be especially helpful for those with health conditions related to a build-up of lymph fluid in the body’s tissues.
How can it benefit me?
Lymphatic drainage massage is an effective and natural way to improve overall health and well-being. It can help with detoxification, reducing swelling and bloating, boost the immune system, reduce stress, and reduce pain.
Lymphatic drainage massage can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including skin problems, muscle pain, digestive issues, and lymphatic congestion. It also treats cancer-related fatigue, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome.
This modified form of massage can help reduce inflammation and swelling by stimulating the lymphatic system to flush toxins from the body. This helps to improve circulation and promote healing. It can also help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy.
For those suffering from lipoedema (a condition where fat deposits form in the legs and arms), lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce swelling and improve the overall appearance.
It has been found to be especially beneficial in treating lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of fluid in the lymph nodes).
In addition to its many health benefits, lymphatic drainage massage can also help you look and feel better. It can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of cellulite, and make you look and feel more toned and refreshed.
Lymphatic drainage massage is generally considered safe, and there are no serious side effects associated with it. In some cases, patients may experience some mild discomfort or tenderness during and after the treatment, which usually subsides quickly. Other minor side effects may include mild swelling, bruising, redness, or itching. Additionally, some people may experience lightheadedness due to the release of toxins.
However, people with certain medical conditions, such as blood clots, lymphatic or vein disorders, or those who have had recent surgery should not receive this type of massage.
It is important to discuss any pre-existing medical condition with your doctor before undergoing lymphatic drainage massage.
How often should I get a lymphatic massage?
The frequency of lymphatic drainage massage depends on your individual needs and the condition you’re treating. In general, a session once a month is recommended.
If you are receiving treatment for lymphedema, your healthcare professional may advise you to receive lymphatic drainage massage more frequently. One session per month may be sufficient for those seeking lymphatic drainage massage as part of a detox or stress-relief program.
It is important to note that lymphatic drainage massage should not replace other forms of medical treatment. Always check with your doctor before beginning any new therapy.
Additionally, suppose you have recently had surgery. In that case, it is best to wait until your incision has healed and your doctor has cleared you for massage therapy before scheduling a lymphatic drainage massage appointment.
Lymphedema isn’t related to diet or exercise.
Lipoedema is a medical condition that can affect both men and women. It is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs, hips, arms and buttocks.
While many people believe that this type of fat accumulation is caused by poor diet and lack of exercise, this is actually not the case. Lipoedema is actually related to changes in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining fluid and proteins away from the tissues.
While there is no cure for lipoedema, there are ways to manage the condition. The primary way to do this is through massage. Lymphatic drainage massage specifically targets the affected areas and can help reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort.
This type of massage works by increasing the flow of lymphatic fluid in the body, thus helping to move any excess fat or toxins out of the body.
It’s important to understand that lymphatic massage does not work as a weight loss method or help you achieve the desired figure.
Rather, it helps improve the quality of life of those living with lipoedema by relieving associated symptoms. As such, it is not related to diet or exercise but rather to the therapeutic effects of massage on the lymphatic system.
When lymphedema goes undiagnosed
This recent article in the ABC News tells the story of a young woman unknowingly battling lymphedema. Without an accurate diagnosis, she was led to believe she was prone to easily gaining weight.
As the condition progresses, your pain increases and pressure to the skin becomes excruciating. She says that, unlike regular fat, lipoedema fat continues to grow and accumulate in an irregular way around the legs — and sometimes the arms — proving almost impossible to budge.
Swelling and bruising happens often and easily. Your mobility worsens to the point where you may need a wheelchair.
International studies estimate around 11 per cent of women and those assigned female at birth are affected.
The effects of undiagnosed lipoedema are serious and can leave lasting psychological scars.
