Massage for Lymphatic Drainage
Massage to encourage lymphatic drainage is a gentle therapy by a one of the specially trained medical massage therapists in our Federal Way massage therapy center. This massage addresses lymphedema, the accumulation of lymph fluid. Lymphatic drainage, also known as manual lymph drainage, is focused on helping lymph fluid to drain properly. The massage therapist lightly rubs, strokes, taps or pushes the skin following the structure of the lymphatic system. Swelling decreases as a result of lymphatic drainage as the accumulated lymph fluid drains into the lymph system. Proper lymph drainage is important for the health of cells and proper immune system function.
Conditions which Can Benefit from Lymphatic Drainage
The most common reason lymph fluid does not drain property is surgical removal of lymph nodes. Breast cancer patients who undergo a mastectomy may have lymph nodes removed from their armpit area; as many as 25% of those cancer patients may develop lymphedema. Other types of cancer surgery may also include removal of lymph nodes, including melanoma, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and bladder cancer. Lymph nodes may also be damaged by radiation treatment, trauma, or infection. Lymphedema can occur almost immediately or months or years later.
The Lymph System and Its Importance to Overall Health
The lymph system plays a vital role in maintaining health. The lymphatic system consists of a network of thin tubes and lymph nodes, small, oval shaped organs in the armpits, groin, neck, center of the chest and abdomen. Lymph drains into lymph vessels then to lymph nodes. The lymph nodes filter the lymph fluid and kill disease-causing organisms. The lymph system lacks a “pump” (like the heart) to move lymph through the lymph system. Lymph fluid is “pumped” through the body through exercise, bodily movement, breathing, and massage.
When to Avoid Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Consult your doctor for a recommendation and prescription before scheduling lymphatic drainage massage. There are a few situations in which lymphatic drainage is not recommended. When lymphatic drainage massage is recommended your massage therapist at our Federal Way massage center will communicate your progress with your doctor in order to support your medical team in helping you reach your optimal outcome and wellness.
Massage is an all-natural, holistic, time-proven therapy for reducing pain, promoting healing, and increasing well-being.
Contact us for more information, to learn whether your insurance plan will cover your lymphatic drainage massage, and to schedule your massage session in our Federal Way massage center.
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and is a vital element of our immune system.