Lymph massage is a special type of massage that assists the lymphatic system of the body. The lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating toxins and other substances from the body as well as providing the correct flow of fluids within the body. Our lymphatic system is also in charge of making sure we do not have excess fluids such as “edema” or “swelling” present in our body. When the lymphatic system is not working well or overloaded with edema, one may notice that there is build up of swelling in certain areas of the body such as the legs or arms.

How Does Lymph Massage Work?

Massage therapy helps to assist in releasing excessive edema in general by way of increasing circulation and pushing or massaging fluids throughout the tissues. With that, manual lymphatic drainage massage, termed “MLD,” is a specialized technique. This technique is very gentle, and light pressure and movements are performed in a particular pattern and technique in order to assist with lymph drainage.

Often, the type of people who need lymph massage are those who have experienced an injury or disease process that has led to issues with the proper functioning of the lymphatic system. For example, someone who has undergone radiation near lymph nodes and now has increased edema or a person who has had surgery on their knee and is now experiencing foot swelling. Lymph massage can make an almost immediate improvement, or may take several visits to improve.

There are other forms of lymph massage that may involve tools, such as jade gua sha tools. Often, the massage therapist is using their fingers or hands in order to perform the technique. Lymph massage and lymph drainage can also be assisted by elevation, compression, and other forms of assistance. Overall, people benefit from a well-functioning lymphatic system and lymph massage can help with that.

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