What is Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic Massage, sometimes referred to as Lymphatic Draining or Lymphatic Drainage Massage is an exceedingly gentle and rhythmic treatment designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. It was developed in the 1930s by Dr Emil Vodder for the treatment of chronic sinusitis and immune disorders. Gentle stimulation of the lymphatic system gives it a boost, increasing the bodies capacity to fight disease, remove toxins and waste products, reduce swelling and increase wellness. It can be done as a full body treatment, or used on a specific area, or incorporated into a different treatment as a tool to help where needed.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The primary role of the Lymphatic System is to collect excess fluid from the tissues, transporting it around the body, purify it and return it to the bloodstream. During this process the fluid is filtered through lymph nodes where lymphocytes containing antibodies are present to defend against bacteria, viruses, fungi & abnormal cells (cancer) that may cause illness, silently working in the background to keep you healthy. When your Lymphatic System fails to sweep up excess fluid it may accumulate, causing swelling. The Lymphatic System is not generally as well known as the Digestive or Respiratory systems; however, you might have heard of some of the organs that make it up such as the spleen, the tonsils, the adenoids and the thymus.
What are the benefits of a Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic Massage stimulates the immune system, helping the body more effectively fight infections and promoting the healing process. Lymphatic Massage also promotes the removal of excess fluid from between the tissue reducing swelling or puffiness and improving the appearance of the skin. It can increase energy levels and a general feeling of wellness and vitality. It may also aid the digestive process and increases the flow of nutrients to cells. Lymphatic Massage is also known to reduce inflammation and joint pain and decreases the recovery time from sprains, strains and muscle fatigue.
Who might find Lymphatic Massage beneficial?
Lymphatic massage is incredibly relaxing. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression you may find this treatment brings you some relief. You may find Lymphatic Massage helpful if you suffer from recurrent infections such as colds, flu, sinus or yeast infections, however, you need to come for a massage during a period of health as massage can not be performed on anyone currently suffering from an infection. Athletes may find Lymphatic Massage helps reduce the recovery period after exercise or improves the rate that injuries heal. It can also be helpful during pregnancy for women suffering from water retention. If you suffer from Fibromyalgia, Lupus, MS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Arthritis then this very gentle technique may offer benefit and relief from symptoms.
What is a Lymphatic Massage treatment like?
Lymphatic Massage is exceptionally light rhythmical movements. This treatment should never be painful. Treatments range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, but also blend well with other therapies and can be used as a tool within another treatment where appropriate. Lymphatic Massage is performed on a massage couch and no oil or massage medium is used during the treatment; friction is needed to gently move the skin over the muscle. Clothing is removed (underwear not included, please leave that on). Towels are used to protect your modesty and only the specific area being treated will be uncovered. As with all massage styles, a thorough consultation is conducted on your first visit to gain a full understanding of any conditions and discuss the most effective personalised treatment plan.
Aftercare Advice
Massage is an aid to the body's natural mechanisms to release stress. To gain maximum benefit from your treatment, it is advisable that you follow this aftercare advice for the next 12 hours.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins; massage aids the removal of toxins from the body.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol or smoking; massage aims to aid the body’s natural detoxification process and these substances are counterproductive as they increase the levels of toxins in the body.
- Avoid eating heavy meals because blood is diverted to the gut to help with digestion. Digestion will divert energy away from the healing process. Eat light meals such as fruit and vegetables.
- Be aware of your posture.
- Rest as much as possible in order to assist the healing process.
- You may feel emotional, this is quite normal.
- You may experience a feeling of tiredness or fatigue following a lymphatic massage. In rare cases, headaches may follow. Increased urination is very likely after a Lymphatic Massage, make sure you stay well hydrated. In very rare cases flu-like symptoms (runny nose, coughing) may be experienced, but these will be temporary as the body re-balances itself. It will be replaced by a feeling of wellbeing!
Contraindications
Sharing is not caring. Massage of any kind should not be carried out on clients with fever, contagious or infectious diseases as it can exacerbate symptoms and leave you feeling worse. Colds and Flu should not be shared, please be kind and reschedule your appointment for a later date.
Clients with cardiovascular disease, arthritis, epilepsy, diabetes or trapped nerves should always have a chat with their doctor before booking to check if treatment is recommended.
If you have chronic heart problems, currently suffering from thrombosis, acute inflammation or cancer you should not book this treatment.
If you are suffering from Lymphoedema, although lymphatic massage could be very beneficial, I am not certified to treat this condition and suggest checking the Dr. Vodder School website for more information.
Clients with cardiovascular disease, arthritis, epilepsy, diabetes or trapped nerves should always have a chat with their doctor before booking to check if treatment is recommended.
If you have chronic heart problems, currently suffering from thrombosis, acute inflammation or cancer you should not book this treatment.
If you are suffering from Lymphoedema, although lymphatic massage could be very beneficial, I am not certified to treat this condition and suggest checking the Dr. Vodder School website for more information.
Duration |
Price |
30 minutes |
£30.00 |
45 minutes |
£45.00 |
60 minutes |
£55.00 |
90 minutes |
£75.00 |
120 minutes |
£95.00 |
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