Celebrities and health personalities have brought awareness to lymphatic drainage massage, citing benefits of flushing out toxins, renewing the body and even losing weight. So, what exactly does it entail, and is it right for everyone?
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes and organs that work together to transport lymph, a clear fluid that contains white blood cells, throughout the body. The lymphatic system acts as a filter or garbage disposal, trapping bacteria, viruses and other foreign substances, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. This system is crucial for maintaining fluid balance, detoxifying the body and defending against infections.
What is Lymphatic Drainage?
Lymphatic drainage, sometimes referred to as manual lymphatic drainage or MLD, is a type of gentle massage. It encourages the movement of lymph fluids around the body. This technique was developed in 1932 by Dr. Emil Vodder, a Danish physiotherapist, and his wife Estrid, according to the Wittlinger Lymphedema Clinic. The goal of lymphatic drainage is to reduce blockages and improve the flow of lymph. This promotes detoxification, reduces swelling and enhances overall health.
Who Benefits from MLD?
People commonly use lymphatic drainage massage when there is lymphedema. This is swelling in the extremities caused by excess lymph fluid. This swelling is caused by another condition that causes the lymph to build up instead of circulating freely. This is a side effect often seen after breast cancer surgery, when lymph nodes may be removed, causing an interruption in the system that causes fluid buildup. Cleveland Clinic reports that other conditions that can benefit from MLD include rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, lipedema (excess fat building up in the lower extremities causing lymphedema) and chronic venous insufficiency. Medical News Today also cites vascular surgery (such as vein stripping), burn scar excision, fluid buildup due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), lipectomy (surgery to remove fat) and other infections or traumas to the lymphatic system as conditions that greatly benefit from MLD.
According to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, “If you have a healthy lymphatic system, lymphatic drainage massage isn’t likely to benefit you beyond simple relaxation. And despite celebrities claiming that lymphatic drainage massage makes them ‘red-carpet ready,’ there’s no evidence that lymphatic drainage massage can help you slim down.” For those that experience perceived weight loss, it is likely due to the reduction of swelling in the extremities and a return to a baseline size.
Is There Anyone Who Should NOT Receive Lymphatic Drainage?
While reducing excess fluid and boosting the immune system sounds great, lymphatic drainage isn’t suitable for everyone. Cleveland Clinic warns against those with a heart condition, blood clots, active infection or kidney failure from seeking lymphatic drainage.
Where Can I Receive This Service?
Certified therapists can perform this service to help with drainage. They lightly massage an area that does not have fluid buildup so the congested lymph fluid has somewhere to drain. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center describes the specific sequence used, starting with the main drains in the groin, neck and armpits. There are several local massage facilities as well as lymphatic care centers that offer this service.
Lymphatic drainage is a powerful yet gentle practice that can have a positive impact on overall health. Whether you’re looking to detoxify, reduce swelling, boost your immune system or simply improve your sense of wellbeing, incorporating lymphatic drainage techniques into your routine can offer health benefits for many people.
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