Drenaż limfatyczny

Lymphatic drainage

Aktualizacja 26 January 2023

Lymphatic drainage – how is lymphatic massage performed? The lymphatic system helps eliminate waste from the body. To this end, a healthy lymphatic system is able to take advantage of the natural movement of smooth muscle tissue. However, some medical conditions can block the flow of lymph fluid, causing fluid to build up in the lymph nodes, called lymphedema.

What is lymphatic massage?

Lymphatic drainage has become a popular form of massage due to its unique health benefits. This specialized approach focuses on the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. This massage is designed to help the body maintain proper blood circulation, fluid balance, and immune function.

It is important to understand the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system contains blood vessels and lymph nodes that carry lymph, which is a mixture of protein, water, waste products, and elements of the immune system. Lymph nodes in the body are designed to filter out all these impurities. The largest knots can be found under the armpits, neck and groin. They work together to ensure that “clean” lymph is transported back to the veins that carry blood to the heart.

Lymphedema

Massage is often used for people with swelling, which usually affects one leg or one arm. Edema is caused by lymph fluid that accumulates in the tissues as a result of trauma, genetic disease, infection, cancer. Symptoms of lymphedema include:

  • pain;
  • skin discoloration;
  • tissue swelling;
  • heavy limbs;
  • feeling weak;
  • hardening or thickening of the skin;
  • repeated infections;

When to perform lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage is a useful technique for treating lymphedema and other conditions. If your body is experiencing symptoms of lymphatic blockage, contact your doctor who can advise you on the benefits of this massage.

What happens during a massage?

Before having a lymphatic drainage massage, check with your doctor to ensure you are being treated by a trained professional. The masseuse uses a series of massage techniques in a specific sequence, including stretching, squeezing, shifting and gripping, with gentle rhythmic movements that stimulate the lymphatic system without undue pressure on the blood vessels. First, special movements facilitate the flow of lymph fluid through the lymph nodes and tissues.

Benefits of lymphatic massage

As we all know, the heart is responsible for pumping blood into the blood vessels, while the lymphatic system focuses on the movement of smooth muscles to transport fluid through the lymphatic vessels. Various medical conditions can sometimes disrupt the natural flow of lymph fluid, which can lead to the accumulation of lymph fluid in certain parts of the body, such as the arms or legs. This condition is called lymphedema. Lymphedema can be the result of an infection, as can any disorder that damages the lymphatic system.

The benefits of lymphatic drainage primarily focus on the transport and removal of fluid buildup, but massage can also stimulate blood circulation and tissue regeneration, reduce puffiness, boost the immune system, reduce the appearance of cellulite, promote physical and mental relaxation, and provide an overall light and energized body. . Lymphatic massage is also used in lymphatic vasoconstriction therapy. Lymphedema can be treated with specially designed clothing or bandages. However, remember that manual lymphatic massage can help you get the most out of it.

How to perform a lymphatic massage?

You can find a professional for specialized lymphatic massage in Warsaw, or you can learn basic massage techniques at home. However, it’s best to talk to your doctor before trying it at home. Most of these exercises can be done standing, sitting, or lying down as long as they feel comfortable.
When performing a lymphatic massage, remember the following tips:

      • Massage movements should only be applied to the skin, so press gently, not too hard to feel the muscles;
      • The hands must be relaxed;
      • Do not massage swollen or infected areas;
      • After each massage, drink plenty of water, preferably several glasses of water.

What Happens During Lymphatic Drainage

If the massage is performed by a specialist, be prepared for a much more difficult massage. After the meeting, you should expect the other person to feel better and more relaxed. Of course, redness of the skin will be noticeable, which is directly related to the increased blood flow. You may also notice that some muscles are more flexible than before, need more urine, and feel more energy in your body. This is because the body needs to be hydrated after the massage to retain the benefits of the massage and the lymph will move normally.

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