What Is Lymphatic Drainage Therapy?

If you’re curious about lymphatic drainage therapy or have booked a session and want to know what to expect, here’s a quick overview.

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a gentle, yet effective manual therapy that has massive benefits including detoxifying the body, reducing inflammation, reducing edema (swelling), improving the immue system and its function, clearing the skin, improving one’s mood, and reducing post-surgery symptoms.  The practitioner uses light, circular and sweeping motions which stimulate and mobilze the lymph vessesls throughout the body.  The lymph vessels and nodes are very superficial in the skin, so only light pressure is used, unless the practitioner is working around the abdomen area where there are deeper lymph nodes and lymph circulation

Lymphatic drainage involves gently manipulating specific areas of your body to help lymph move to an area with working lymph vessels. Basically, the lymphatic system is part of the circulatory and immune systems. It helps remove waste products and toxins from our tissues and return them to the bloodstream.  Lymphatic drainage is a common and necessary medical treatment for those with lymphedema, but it can also help those that are feeling sluggish or fatigued.

A healthy lymphatic system can become compromised due to illness, lack of physical activity, stress, poor diet or toxic overload. This can lead to a range of issues, including tissue swelling, poor skin tone, allergies and sinus issues, excess weight, cellulite, headachces joint pain, fatigue and greater susceptibility to illness. Lymphatic drainage can help to keep the body running smoothly by improving lymphatic flow.

The practitioner focuses on manual mapping techniques in the areas where lymph nodes are concentrated including the clavicle, behind the ears (cervical), axillary area, back of the knees (popliteal), and superficial and deeper abdominals.

See chart below for details:

In order to better prepare for your session, it is best to avoid any heavy stimulants (alcohol, cigarettes, etc) and hydrate as much as possible.  Drinking lots of water, green juices, or even coconut water days leading up to your session will keep your body hydrated and allow it to eliminate toxins to a greater degree during and after your session.  However, it is best to avoid consuming large quantities of fluids 1-2 hours BEFORE your session, as the practitioner will be draining the fluids around the abdomen and pelvis area, and a full bladder could make the treatment uncomfortable for you.

While lymphatic drainage is generally a very safe and effective technique that is suitable for many individuals, there are some exceptions to who should try it to avoid potential complications.

Please see a list of our indications and contraindications here – https://balancedmanualtherapy.com/lymphatic-drainage-therapy/

Dali is certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage by Dr. Bruno’s Chikly Institute.  She has received advanced certifications in Lymphatic Drainage Therapy for pre and post surgery patients, as well as those suffering from edema, venous insufficiency, heavy metal and mold toxicity, Chronic Fatigue, MS, Fibromyalgia, and other autoimmune conditions.  Her manual therapy studio is located in South Asheville.  Click on the “Book” button on the top menu to schedule your appointment, or visit the location page to get in touch with her directly.