Bansel Osteopathy are expert in lymphatic massage for lymphatic drainage helping conditions like lymphedema and overall well-being. Our expert lymphatic drainage massage therapists have years of experience and a wide knowledge base to help each patient with their specific needs. Whether you’re looking to detoxify your body, reduce swelling, or simply relax, we can help.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is part of your body’s immune system. It’s made up of a network of vessels and organs including lymph nodes, tonsils, and the spleen. These vessels carry fluid containing proteins, salt, water, and white blood cells throughout your body to your blood.
This system plays an important role in your immune system by maintaining your body’s fluid balance, immune system, and circulatory system whilst helping to remove waste and toxins from your body tissue.
What is lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic massage (MLD), is a type of massage that stimulates the flow of fluid in the lymphatic system to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and improve the immune system.
By gently massaging the lymphatic system, lymphatic massage can help to remove toxins from the body more effectively. It’s often used as part of the treatment for lymphedema, a condition where lymph fluids build up in certain parts of the body, as well as for general wellness and relaxation.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised form of massage carried out by a professional using gentle, rhythmic hand movements to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the flow of lymph fluid. It’s typically used to treat certain conditions like lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and post-surgical swelling.
Simple Lymphatic Drainage
Simple lymphatic drainage is a more basic form of lymphatic massage that can be carried out at home. It’s often taught to individuals by their healthcare providers to manage conditions like mild lymphedema. Simply lymphatic drainage involves simple, easy-to-learn techniques that focus on encouraging the flow of lymph fluid to manage swelling.
Lymphatic Massage Techniques
Upper Body Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic drainage focuses on stimulating lymphatic flow in the arms, chest, neck, and head. Our therapists used gentle, circular motions with light pressure to encourage the lymph fluid towards the lymph nodes.
Lower Body Lymphatic Massage Techniques
Lower body lymphatic drainage is great for targeting the legs, hips, buttocks, and lower back. Our therapists encourage the removal of excess fluid and toxins from the tissues by using rhythmic strokes and light pressure.
How Does Lymphatic Massage Work?
Lymphatic massage uses a variety of skin-stretching movements to gently stimulate the lymphatic fluid that lies under your skin. These movements encourage the fluid to flow freely around your lymphatic system.
After Having Manual Lymphatic Drainage
After having your manual lymphatic drainage massage, you can expect to see a reduction in swelling, bloating, and puffiness. It’s important to stay hydrated for at least 48 hours after your massage, as accelerates your lymphatic system, making you feel thirstier. You may also notice an enhanced immune system, better circulation, and possibly mild soreness, although this is only short-term. These effects let you know that the lymphatic massage is working.
Here are some aftercare tips you can follow after your massage:
- Stay hydrated
- Rest to give your body time to recover
- Maintain a healthy diet to support the detoxification process
- Stay active with gentle activity like walking
The Benefits of Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic massage has a range of incredible benefits for anyone. Here’s just a few:
Reduced Swelling and Inflammation
Lymphatic massage is great for reducing swelling and inflammation by stimulating the flow of lymph fluid. It’s particularly beneficial for those with conditions like lymphedema, where symptoms include excessive swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid.
Enhanced Immune Function
By promoting the flow and movement of lymph fluid, lymphatic massage supports the immune system by helping remove toxins and waste materials in the body. This enhances the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.
Relaxation
The strokes during lymphatic drainage massage are gentle and rhythmic which has a powerful calming effect on the nervous system helping to reduce tension in the body. This provides a calming effect that contributes to overall well-being.
Stress Relief
Lymphatic massage promotes relief from stress and anxiety due to the rhythmic movements and calming atmosphere. It’s a therapeutic approach that can reduce cortisol levels. Many of our clients also find lymphatic massage purifying and feel that it revitalises their energy, so they are ready to face new challenges.
When You Shouldn't Have MLD or SLD
Lymphatic massage is generally safe for most people, however, there are certain conditions and situations where we would advise against manual lymphatic drainage or simple lymphatic drainage. These are:
- Kidney problems
- Liver disease
- Malignant tumours
- Acute infections
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Recent surgery
- Pregnancy
Disclaimer
Lymphatic massage is not suitable for those with poor Kidney function or Liver disease. It is also advised that you check with your GP if you are suffering from any form of cancer, including those in remission.
Areas We Cover
We provide expert lymphatic drainage massage to people in the Sussex area. Bansel Osteopathy is located in the heart of Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Location is important to us as we know many of our patients use public transport to get to their appointments, so we ensure our clinic is accessible and easy to find.
Our Lymphatic Massage Therapists
At Bansel Osteopathy, we take pride in our team of skilled and experienced massage therapists who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and service to our clients. Each member of our team is certified and highly trained in their areas of expertise.
Our lymphatic massage therapists have a deep understanding of the anatomy, and the principles of massage therapy, and stay up to date with the latest developments and techniques in the field. When you choose lymphatic massage at Bansel, you can have the confidence that you are in the hands of dedicated professionals.
Why Choose Bansel Osteopathy
Bansel Osteopathy has an incredible team of certified, experienced massage therapists who provide personalised care tailored to your needs. We have a tranquil facility to ensure a relaxing experience, while our commitment to proven results and holistic wellness supports your overall health. We’re here to inform you about the lymphatic system, and help you maximise the benefits of the massage. Get in touch with us now to arrange your lymphatic drainage massage.
Lymphatic Massage Frequently Asked Questions
Our patients often know that the lymphatic massage is working due to the reduction in swelling and improved mobility. However, it can take a few treatments to be able to see results.
The frequency of this massage will depend on your personal situation and the severity of your symptoms. During your consultation, we can discuss your needs.
Lymphatic massage is a gentle form of massage treatment to help with a range of issues.
Before your treatment, please avoid alcohol, drink plenty of water, and ensure you are eating a healthy diet.
The lymphatic massage typically lasts for 30 minutes. This duration allows the therapist to adequately stimulate the lymphatic system and encourage the flow of lymph fluid throughout
No, it shouldn’t be painful. Lymphatic massage is a gentle technique designed to encourage lymphatic drainage and promote overall well-being. While some individuals may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in certain areas, the massage should not cause significant pain. If you do experience discomfort during the massage, be sure to communicate with your therapist so adjustments can be made to ensure your comfort.