Lymphatic Drainage
Lymph Wellness
What are the benefits of getting a massage when you have lymphedema?
Please be advised, I don't do full-body lymphatic drainage.
I specialise in providing services for individuals dealing with severe chronic pain, those who’ve had spinal surgery, amputees, people who’ve had one or both breasts removed, individuals recovering from sports injuries, and those facing other physical and mental health challenges.
As shown in the photo, the lymphatic system is spread throughout your body. Sometimes, parts of our bodies can become unbalanced, leading to issues within the system. This can result in swelling or conditions like fluid retention following breast surgery or the development of nodules after breast cancer.
I've worked with many women who developed swollen feet and other fluid retention issues after breast cancer treatment. This includes swelling in areas like the arms and legs.
Massage therapy can offer significant benefits for people with lymphoedema, but it's important to approach it gently and always under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Here's how massage can help:
1. Improves Lymphatic Drainage
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A specialised, gentle massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to improve the flow of lymph fluid. This helps reduce swelling and promotes better fluid balance in the affected area.
2. Reduces Swelling and Pain
- Massage can alleviate the discomfort associated with fluid retention, reducing pressure on nerves and tissues.
- Enhancing circulation can help decrease inflammation, which in turn can aid in pain relief.
3. Enhances Mobility
- Reducing swelling can improve the range of motion in affected limbs, allowing for more comfortable movement and daily activities.
4. Supports Immune Function
- The lymphatic system plays a critical role in immune defence. Stimulating lymph flow through massage can enhance the body's ability to fight infections.
5. Promotes Relaxation
- Chronic conditions like lymphoedema can be stressful. Massage therapy helps reduce stress hormones, promoting overall well-being and mental relaxation.
6. Improves Skin and Tissue Health
- Gentle massage increases blood circulation, which nourishes the skin and underlying tissues. This can help prevent complications such as skin hardening (fibrosis) and infections like cellulitis.