Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a massage that involves the use of gentle manual maneuvers to aid in the circulation of lymphatic fluids. The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to our body’s ability to drain stagnant fluids, detoxify, regenerate tissues, filter out toxins and foreign substances, and maintain a healthy immune system (Asdok, 1970, Dair & Guyton, 1982). It is a complex system comprised primarily of lymph vessels and nodes working in cooperation to accomplish these tasks. Due to the nature and role of the lymphatic system, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can prove beneficial in the correction of numerous conditions as well as in preventive health maintenance. In essence, Lymph Drainage Therapy works to help recirculate body fluids, stimulate functioning of the immune system,
and balance the autonomic nervous system. It is shown that when these actions are accomplished, the results may be:
- Reduction in edemas (swelling) and lymphedemas of many origins.
- Relief of chronic and subacute inflammation and conditions such as acne, eczema and allergies.
- Immune system stimulation for preventive and therapeutic effects.
- Regeneration of tissues (e.g., from burns and pre-and post-surgical scarring) and anti-aging effects.
- Detoxification of the body.
- Relief of chronic pain.
- Deep relaxation to aid insomnia, depression, stress, loss of vitality, and loss of memory.
- Antispastic actions to relive conditions such as voluntary or involuntary muscle hypertonus.
- Reduction in the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
- Alleviation of adiposis and cellulite tissue.