Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a therapeutic technique that encourages the movement of lymphatic fluid within the body. It is gentle and rhythmic and mirrors the body’s natural lymphatic flow. Medically trained lymphatic therapists will move fluid within the body through the proper drainage channels- fluid will never be removed through incisions.
Lymphatic Drainage is commonly used to address:
Edema (swelling)
Post-surgical healing
Scar tissue treatment
Migraines/headaches
Chronic sinus pain/pressure
Autoimmune and chronic illness
What to Expect from a Session:
Lymphatic Drainage is not massage. It is specifically designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. During a session we will work on the head and neck, chest (not breast tissue), abdomen, and lymph nodes in the front hip crease (inguinal) and armpits (axillary). Arms and legs will be included in full body sessions or when the swelling/injury is in a limb. All sessions are performed without the use of oil or lotion.
Why is it so light?
Lymphatic work is light because the majority of the lymphatic system is very superficial- located just below the skin. We work slightly deeper over the primary nodes and the deeper channels located in the abdomen.
But what is it actually doing?
The main purpose of lymphatic drainage is to pull the fluid from the interstitial space (between cells & tissues) into the lymphatic system- the point where it becomes lymphatic fluid! When the system is worked too deeply, it can encourage blood flow to the area which can increase interstitial fluid and overwhelm the lymphatic system.
When there is an injury, surgery, or the lymphatic system is compromised, interstitial fluid remains in the space between the cells. This fluid is a mixture of important nutrients being delivered by the circulatory system and byproducts being released by the cells. When the fluid can’t drain properly into the lymphatic system, the byproducts can build up and solidify over time and it can become difficult for the cells to absorb nutrients. This creates an environment that is commonly referred to as “toxic.” While lymphatic drainage is not a “detox treatment” it does encourage the body’s natural ability to remove byproducts that are hanging out in the interstitial space.
What to expect after a session:
Clients often initially feel deeply relaxed after a lymphatic session. In the 24-48 hours following treatment they may experience muscle aches, fatigue, and a general flulike feeling. This is the body’s response to the byproducts being moved through what is an important part of our immune system!
Clients may also notice that they are more thirsty or are urinating more frequently for the first few days. This is also normal. The fluid is water based and as it is emptied into your circulatory system the body removes it through the urinary system. Drink plenty of water so that the body can keep doing what it is meant to do!