Lymphatic Massage :

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a specialized gentle type of skin massage to support the lymphatic system, and can be helpful for individuals detoxing or anyone wanting greater health, vitality and support for their lymph and immune systems. The lymph system is the main detox channel in the body.  In manual lymph drainage massage, the aim is to encourage any extra lymph fluid to move away from a swollen or congested area so it can drain normally. The lymph system depends on contraction of smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels and the movement of skeletal muscle to propel lymph through the vessels to the lymph nodes and then beyond to lymph ducts which return lymph to the circulatory system (your blood).  Manual Lymph Drainage massage is an important part of reducing edema and is recognized as the primary tool in lymphedema management. 

You can expect gentle strokes or pushing of the skin in directions that follow the flow of the lymphatic system so that accumulated lymph fluid can drain through proper channels. Lymphatic drainage is very gentle and some individuals find it extremely relaxing and helpful for sleep and overall well-being – it doesn’t have a stimulating effect on the body like some massages. Each session last 30-60 minutes and is performed once a day multiple times during the week depending on your condition and needs.

Depending on each person’s health and energy, there are many ways to support the lymph system including drinking clean pure water, exercise (including rebounding), dry brushing, and hot/cold water therapy.  Please contact us or ask your health practitioner for more information and what is safe for you.

Benefits of Lymphatic Massage:

Lymph massage can benefit just about everyone. If you’re feeling tired and low on energy, or if you’ve been sick and feeling like your body is fighting to get back on track, lymph massage would likely serve you well.

In addition, athletes, plastic surgery, liposuction, fibromyaliga and chronic fatigue sufferers, as well as those wanting a fresh look may want to consider lymphatic massage. Here’s why.

After a sports injury or surgery, lymph vessels can become overwhelmed with the demand placed on them. When tissues are swollen, deep tissue techniques may actually cause damage to the lymph vessels and surrounding structures. Lymphatic massage is often the treatment of choice, because it helps the body remove proteins and waste products from the affected area and reduce the swelling. This helps reduce pressure on cells and allows them to reproduce faster to heal the body.

Surgical procedures involving lymph node removal–such as breast cancer surgery–can cause limbs to swell. Severe limb swelling needs the attention of a medical team, but in milder cases, lymphatic massage alone may be enough to prevent or even treat the swelling. It’s important that your doctor be involved in your care. Let your doctor know you’d like to see a massage therapist and make sure you have medical approval.

Lymph massage can also be part of a care program for fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. Because it’s so gentle, it is well tolerated by these patients, who are often experiencing sore trigger points throughout the body. And by encouraging lymph flow and removing waste products, this gentle form of bodywork can help restore immune function and improve vitality.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema refers to swelling that generally occurs in an arm or leg – sometimes both arms or both legs swell. Lymphedema is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to your lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment. It results from a blockage in your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid buildup leads to swelling.  There’s no cure for lymphedema. But it can be managed with early diagnosis and diligent care of your affected limb.

It’s important for individuals undergoing cancer care involving lymph nodes being radiated or removed to understand the risks of lymphedema and make the best choices for themselves and their bodies.  We recommend understanding these risks before exercising, going in a hot tub, and receiving a massage.  Steve can assist you by being specially trained as an Oncology Massage Therapist and “Do no harm” massage training for individuals at risk of Lymphedema.

Please contact Steve for more information on Reducing Lymphedema Risk or Manual Lymph Drainage.

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Manual Lymph Drainage, Lymphatic Massage, Lymphedema, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Ventura County, Los Angeles, Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Agoura Hills, Steve Romey, Conejo Valley, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Newbury Park.