Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is a special type of massage that stimulates the production of lymph, lymph circulation, and the detoxification of the body.

What is lymph?

The lymphatic system is an important system of the body, and lymph is a fluid that mainly consists of water. However, this watery substance is filled with cellular waste products, as well as bacteria and toxins. Harmful substances from the cells of our body enter the lymph. The functions of the lymphatic system include natural detoxification. Since the lymphatic system produces white blood cells, it plays a significant role in maintaining the body's immune system. Lymph flows slowly through capillaries and circulates through lymph nodes, where it is purified and enriched with immune-competent cells. The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is essential for both health and beauty.

Lymphatic vessels run parallel to venous blood vessels, serving as an additional drainage system, responsible for maintaining fluid balance. Unlike blood circulation, which is powered by the heart, lymph movement is passive. It is connected to breathing and the movements of our body. Over time, and due to a sedentary lifestyle, the movement and functioning of lymph worsens. Unhealthy diet, bad habits, and unfavorable environmental conditions negatively affect tissue health, further burdening the lymphatic system.

Indications for manual lymphatic drainage:

•     Lymphatic edema (after injuries, bone fractures);
•     Varicose veins;
•     Pathology of fatty tissue (cellulite);
•     Pain syndrome (fibromyalgia);
•     Rheumatic disorders of soft tissues (bursitis, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome);
•     Chronic inflammations (colds, tonsillitis, sinusitis);
•     Circulatory disorders, metabolic disorders, weakened immunity.
   

How is the manual lymphatic drainage procedure performed?

Manual lymphatic drainage, combined with breathing, relaxation, exercises, skin care, healthy nutrition, and compression therapy, plays a crucial role in addressing lymphatic system dysfunctions.

The technique of manual lymphatic drainage includes compressing, stretching, and twisting the tissues with gentle, rhythmic movements, using phases of pressure and relaxation.
 

Duration of manual lymphatic drainage procedures:

•     Manual lymphatic drainage of the neck and shoulders – 30 min.;
•     Manual lymphatic drainage of the arms – 45 min.;
•     Manual lymphatic drainage of the legs – 45 min.;
•     Manual lymphatic drainage of the back – 60 min.;
•     Manual lymphatic drainage of the lumbar region and gluteal area – 30 min.;
•     Full-body manual lymphatic drainage procedure – 90 min.
   

Effects of manual lymphatic drainage:

• Local effects: Increases interstitial pressure, prevents fluid accumulation in tissues, promotes the movement of fluid to the lymphatic capillaries, stimulates lymph production, enhances lymph node function, boosts lymphocyte division and movement, improves cellular oxygenation and nutrient absorption, stimulates cell regeneration, and accelerates blood flow in superficial and deep veins.
• General effects: Improves lymph circulation, filters lymph, detoxifies the body, boosts metabolism, reduces lymphatic edema (except in cases related to heart or kidney conditions), reduces stress and anxiety, relieves shortness of breath and sleep disturbances, activates blood circulation, normalizes blood pressure, reduces pain and spasms, improves skin condition, diminishes bruising, scars, and stretch marks, regulates body weight, delays the aging process, and strengthens immunity.
   

Contraindications for manual lymphatic drainage:

•     Metastatic or systemic malignant tumors;
•     Acute inflammations, acute infections, fever, elevated body temperature;
•     Headaches of unknown origin;
•     Acute skin injuries;
•     Bleeding and PMS;
•    Thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, kidney pathology, bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, hypotension (low blood pressure);
•     Heart failure;
•     Diabetes;
•     Fragile blood vessels;
•     First trimester of pregnancy, lactation.