LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE
Massage. The word brings to mind relaxation, pain relief, freedom from stress. Did you know there is a massage that may improve and support your immune system? A lymphatic drainage massage may provide those benefits along with improved muscle tone.
This type of massage is also popular as a way to reduce bloating and flush out toxins. Lymphatic massage has been used for quite some time as a medicinal practice, and there is science behind the benefits.
The first question is, what exactly is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and other organs that keeps body fluid in balance. It is part of the immune system; it protects the body from pathogens, toxins, and waste products. It’s a sanitation system that keeps waste out and good nutrients running throughout the body.
The lymphatic system is heavily dependent on movement; many factors can affect the lymphatic system and make it become sluggish, and that’s where a lymphatic drainage massage may be helpful to get things moving.
What is a lymphatic massage?
This technique has been around for nearly 100 years. It was created in the 1930s by a man named Emil Vodder, who lived in France. It was initially the go-to treatment for lymphedema (which we will talk about another day). This technique came to the United States in the 1970s.
This massage technique stimulates lymph flow and enhances the clearance of accumulated toxic waste in the body. Since the lymphatic system is dependent on movement, if that movement begins to stop or slow down, the system is not performing correctly, and waste may not be moving out as quickly as we would like. This type of massage helps carry waste products out of the system through muscle contractions and out with the average bodily waste functions. Drainage from the massage reduces swelling and improves circulation throughout the entire body.
What are the benefits?
The most common reason lymphatic drainage is used is to treat lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling, often in the arms and legs. One study found that incorporating a lymphatic massage in addition to compression helped to decrease swelling in lymphedema patients. There is also some evidence that this type of massage can help with insomnia, fibromyalgia, and orthopedic injuries.
The lymphatic massage is also thought to help reduce bloat and aid the body’s natural detox process. Supporting the immune system, calming the nervous system, and maybe even improving the appearance of the skin.
The massage professionals at Port Orange Chiropractic performs lymphatic drainage massage, and we can answer any questions you may have on this technique.
The information in our blog is not intended to be used as medical advice. Please contact us if you would like to schedule an appointment or have questions. 386•761•0520
