The lymphatic massage (or lymphatic drainage ) produces movements that attempt to mimic the physiological pumping, increasing tissue oxygenation.
For this reason, it helps to reduce the swelling ( edema ), caused by the excess of fluid (lymph) that accumulates between the cells of the body.
This liquid is nothing more than plasma (a component of blood low in protein ) that escapes from the bloodstream and goes to the subcutaneous tissue (under the skin).
The lymphatic system is responsible for purifying and transporting these liquids again from the tissues to the circulatory system, through the lymphatic vessels.
We’ll find out a little more about it below , which can be a powerful ally in relieving such uncomfortable swelling.
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How to do lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic massage can be done manually or mechanically (with the aid of devices), which does not differentiate its benefits.
As it is a very specific technique used as a treatment, the Brazilian Society of Dermatology recommends that it be performed by specialized professionals .
Manual
Manual lymphatic massage is quite different from other types of massage, as it uses gentle, slow and rhythmic manual pressures that obey the path of the superficial lymphatic system.
The movements are smooth, so there is no risk of causing inflammation in the veins and the formation of clotting inside the blood vessels.
They can be done with the thumb, in a repetitive way, and also with the cupped hands, in slow movements and light compression.
The places to apply the techniques are:
- Legs: the movements start slower and gain intensity, going from the shins to the back of the knees (popliteal fossa) and from the thighs to the groin;
- Belly: the movement must be made towards the groin;
- Arms and chest: the movements go to the armpits.
Many professionals like to use bamboo as an auxiliary material for drainage. That’s because they end up acting as an extension of the fingers, which increases the range of the touches.
It is important to pay attention, as other massage techniques may be used inappropriately and called manual lymphatic drainage .
Mechanics
The mechanical version is not considered an invasive method and has the same objectives as the manual. It mixes technological resources with the knowledge of the professional who handles the device.
In this case, devices are used that work with a rolling, suction and pressure therapy (pressure) mechanism. This is intended to help reduce edema, which is the swelling caused by excess fluid retained in body tissues.
One of the device options used is a type of pneumatic boot (which works with compressed air), which exerts pressure on the limb, thus improving circulation.
It reproduces the physiological movements in the ankle joints and activates the muscular mechanisms of the calf, favoring the lymphatic system without increasing the blood volume at the site.
Lymphatic massage lose weight?
Lymphatic massage does not lose weight , but it does help to reduce the swelling of the body, shape and define the silhouette, and can act not only on fat tissue but also on muscles.
According to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, the procedure done mechanically, for having a deeper performance, can help in the treatment of localized fat and cellulite .
The ideal is to combine it with other factors such as dietary reeducation and regular physical activities. This combo can indeed help you lose weight, but massage alone does not have this function.
What are the benefits of a lymphatic massage?
The procedure is used as a form of aesthetic and post-surgical treatment (even in the case of non-aesthetic surgeries), and has several benefits. Check out some of them below:
- Promotes muscle relaxation;
- Decreases swelling due to fluid retention;
- Promotes hydration and cellular nutrition;
- It helps in the disappearance of bruises and in the healing of wounds, as it helps the blood to circulate better in the place;
- Speeds up the postoperative process of surgeries, reducing recovery time by up to 50% by helping with healing;
- Relieves pain due to sliding movements that help to relieve pressure and pain, in addition to releasing endorphins (natural analgesics).
Indications of the procedure
Lymphatic massage is beneficial for health and well-being, and can be a powerful ally in some treatments.
Here are some situations in which the procedure is indicated:
- Body tissues that show swelling;
- Poor blood circulation in areas such as legs and feet;
- Swelling during pregnancy or premenstrual tension;
- Pre- and post-plastic surgery treatment;
- Cellulitis;
- Treatment of scars and keloids;
- Relaxation of bodily tensions.
How much does a lymphatic drainage session cost?
The prices of the procedure usually vary, as there are manual or mechanical techniques, with sessions that vary between 30 or 60 minutes. In addition, there are several specialized aesthetic centers with values that vary according to each professional.
It can be done separately or in promotional packages offered by beauty clinics with more than one session.
In general, prices vary between R $ 30 and R $ 100 for manual massage and R $ 150 to R $ 200 for mechanical massage (with devices) in individual sessions.
In the promotional packages, these values can be reduced and vary according to the establishment chosen to carry out the procedure.
After knowing the benefits of lymphatic massage, it is worth knowing the procedure whether to assist in some treatment or even to relax the body.
Have you ever had lymphatic massage? Tell us in the comments about your experience and keep following the Healthy Minute to learn more about health and well-being.
