Lymphatic Drainage Defined

It is essential for those who provide lymphatic drainage treatments and therapy to understand the lymphatic system in detail. The lymphatic system is a complex and interconnected internal network composed of vessels and ducts that carry fluids throughout the body. These networks are responsible for waste management – moving and eliminating toxins and unhealthy substances from the body. They are also responsible for healing and delivering chemicals necessary to fight infection and viruses and repair damaged cells. While fluid can move freely through the lymphatic system, one shortcoming is that the lymphatic system is not able to pump or move substances on its own, but is more of a drainage system. The lymphatic system relies on the movement of surrounding muscles to move lymph (the substance containing mostly protein, interstitial fluid and white blood cells) through the body and to the cardiovascular system. Lymphatic drainage concerns assisting the lymphatic system in removing harmful substances by assisting in the manual pumping of lymphatic vessels and ducts.

A lymphatic drainage massage or therapy session is designed to address the free-flowing lymphatic system and specific points on the body known as lymph nodes –collections of lymphatic vessels that filter and collect foreign and harmful particles traveling through the lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage can reduce blockages in the lymphatic system that result in swelling and pain to promote a cleaner more efficient immune system and better overall health. While drainage is generally thought of as safe and preventative medicine, it can often espouse swollen lymph glands that can signify more serious problems and are often people’s first warning for a number of health concerns. When the system does not properly remove toxins it may affect the body’s white blood cell count.

Lymphatic drainage aims to reduce these blockages as well as improving muscular and respiratory health. Large lymph node blockages can lead to pronounced swelling in the lymph nodes located in the neck, arms, trunk, groin and legs. They can also lead to swelling of body parts and appendages due to reduced circulation. Some therapists have linked lymphatic drainage to the reduction of allergies, menstrual cramps and common illnesses like colds and viruses. The lymph nodes may become swollen for a number of reasons. Injury, viral and bacterial infections, as well as tumors, lymphomas, melanomas and other cancers can lead to swollen lymph nodes. Even fevers and sore throats often accompanied by swollen lymph nodes.

Lymphatic problems have been attributed to stress, lack of exercise, unhealthy diets and even tight-fitting clothing. Limiting these factors may be a way to improve lymphatic function and overall health. However, not everyone is at liberty to control stress, can make time for exercise and eat healthy food all the time. Lymphatic drainage therapy may provide some relieve by manual moving lymph through the body to remove blockages and increase circulation. Lymphatic drainage therapy, or manual lymphatic drainage, is noninvasive and gentle massage therapy that offers management of the lymphatic system. Through rhythmic circular motions and slight pressure lymphatic drainage aims to offer increased lymph uptake and more efficient flow of lymph through the lymphatic ducts. This therapy is often recommended for the management of bruises, eczema, ulcerations, fissures, wounds and plugged ducts. It also may be able to aid wound recovery from certain surgeries and provide a more optimal healing internal environment.