Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
The lymphatic system is having a moment in the spotlight, and here at Resonance, we couldn’t be more thrilled. As a crucial component of our interconnected body, the lymphatic system plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. Manual lymphatic drainage is one option for supporting the lymphatic system.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system balances excess fluid in the body and works to fight infection as part of the immune system. It is made up of vessels, organs, tissues, and glands that drain lymph fluid from the body.
Lymph nodes store immune cells to kill germs and filter lymph fluid while fighting infection. When you are sick, lymph nodes close to the site of the infection are often inflamed and enlarged. Lymph fluid, which contains both proteins and fats, carries white blood cells to attack bacteria in the body.
What happens when lymphatic fluid accumulates?
Sometimes, the lymphatic system gets damaged, and sometimes, it can be overwhelmed with the rate of lymph accumulation. This causes a backup in the system, which can lead to lymph fluid pooling in soft tissues and causing swelling.
Chronic swelling from lymph buildup is called lymphedema. It can result in skin changes and a heavy, achy feeling. Treatment for lymphatic buildup and lymphedema focuses on encouraging lymph fluid to move through the system and minimizing future buildup.
What are the benefits of manual lymphatic drainage?
Manual lymphatic drainage originated in the 1930s and is a gentle technique designed to help improve the movement of lymphatic fluid through the body. It works by creating space elsewhere in the lymphatic system, so built up fluid has somewhere to go. Manual lymphatic drainage follows a specific sequence to direct lymph fluid toward functioning lymph nodes. Rather than massaging the areas that are swollen, practitioners focus on areas that are functioning to create space and draw excess lymph fluid into that space.
Supporting the movement of lymphatic fluid can reduce swelling or puffiness. Additionally, the increase in circulation leaves skin with a beautiful, healthy glow. As with other bodywork techniques, it can also help reduce stress and create a sense of relaxation.
It is important to find the right practitioner when it comes to manual lymphatic drainage. With the lymphatic system in the spotlight recently, there are many different approaches to lymphatic drainage – some of which are focused on supporting the lymphatic system and others that have a more cosmetic goal.
Kara Carder, owner of Resonance, is a Certified Lymphatic Therapist and can incorporate manual lymphatic drainage techniques into any massage appointment. If you’re looking for lymphatic drainage, contact us today to book an appointment with Kara.