Here’s the Rub!

Lymphatic drainage has garnered attention in recent years for its potential cosmetic benefits. However, this form of massage is more than a means to reduce puffiness.

Among myriad health benefits, full-body lymphatic drainage massage can increase immunity and relieve painful swelling throughout the body. For those who have undergone cancer treatment or suffer from arthritis, lymphatic drainage massage may even be recommended by your doctor.

Lymphatic system crash course

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in our immune function and daily well-being. Similar to the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system runs through the body, returning lymphatic fluid to the bloodstream. Lymphatic fluid, or lymph, comes from the extracellular fluid that lymphatic capillaries collect to form a watery substance. Essentially, the material our body no longer needs is consolidated and returned to the bloodstream, where it is then eliminated.

This process requires lymphatic capillaries and vessels that move lymph into two ducts: the right lymphatic duct—which drains the right side of the neck, head, and arm—and the thoracic duct—which drains the majority of the body.

Lymph buildup and blockages.

Our bodies are remarkable at sustaining themselves, but there are instances where the lymphatic system doesn’t work properly. Lymph can build up, especially in instances where lymph nodes have been damaged.

This condition, referred to as lymphedema, may result in painful swelling. Some causes of fluid buildup include injury, infection, surgery, and cancer treatment, but there may not always be a clear source.

In these cases, healthcare professionals may suggest a lymphatic drainage massage. Lymph drainage massages can also help with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lipedema, and chronic venous insufficiency.

How a lymphatic drainage massage works.

Lymphatic drainage massage involves manually moving lymph through the lymphatic system. In addition to assisting lymphatic drainage, these massages help with relaxation and pain relief.

During a session, a trained professional will gently touch and stretch the skin in the direction of lymphatic flow. The purpose of the massage is to relieve areas of pain and swelling, and may be applied to the abdomen, limbs, breast area, and face.

Sessions are broken into two stages: stage one involves releasing the lymphatic fluid in your tissues. During the second stage, the massage therapist moves that fluid through your system and to your lymph nodes.

At-home massage techniques

If you’re intrigued by these benefits, Simple lymphatic drainage is a technique that you may learn to do yourself.  This method involves light pressure movement in areas without swelling to clear space for lymph fluid to drain. Simple lymphatic drainage is the technique most often featured in online videos and tutorials, and while it can be performed on the face, it also applies across the body.

It is always best to consult your doctor and speak with a professional to ensure proper technique, but the self-performed massage involves three key components:

1. Using light pressure to pull gently at the skin
2. Using the flats of your fingertips and hands
3. Performing daily, 20-minute massages

For relief on the face, one may stroke from the bridge of the nose across the cheeks, finishing at the ear. You may also move from the inner brow towards the outer brow and ear.

For relief on the neck, gently stretch the skin on either side of your neck down and away from the face, then release. Note: This process should not be painful, and should not be performed if you have an infection.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of delicious living magazine.