Lymphatic Drainage Massage

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What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage / Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?​

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Lymphatic drainage is a specialized massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, helping to improve the body’s natural detoxification process. By gently applying rhythmic pressure on the skin, this treatment encourages the movement of lymph fluid, which helps to reduce swelling, flush out toxins, and enhance circulation. Lymphatic drainage massage is particularly beneficial for those suffering from fluid retention, post-surgery recovery, or sluggish circulation. It also supports the immune system and promotes overall health and well-being.

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What can Lymphatic Drainage Massage help with?

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Whether you're looking to recover from surgery, manage chronic conditions, or simply boost your wellness, lymphatic drainage offers a variety of benefits which can include:

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• Reducing fluid retention and swelling

• Supporting post-surgery recovery

• Detoxifying the body by flushing out toxins

• Enhancing circulation and boosting immunity

• Relieving stress and promoting relaxation

• Alleviating chronic pain and muscle tension

• Managing cellulite and improving skin tone

• Supporting weight loss and reducing bloating

• Easing symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue

• Improving overall energy levels and well-being

 

Who can benefit from a Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

 

Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit a wide range of individuals looking to improve their overall health and well-being. Here's who can benefit the most:

• Post-Surgery Recovery: Individuals recovering from surgeries, including cosmetic surgery, liposuction, or any procedure that may cause fluid retention or swelling, can benefit from lymphatic drainage to speed up recovery and reduce inflammation.

• People with Fluid Retention: Anyone dealing with swelling, edema, or water retention, often caused by factors like pregnancy, long periods of sitting, or certain medical conditions, can experience relief from lymphatic drainage massage.

• Chronic Pain Sufferers: Those with chronic pain conditions, like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions, can use lymphatic drainage massage to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

• Detox and Immune Support: People looking to boost their body's detoxification process or strengthen their immune system may find lymphatic drainage beneficial as it helps eliminate toxins and supports overall health.

• Cellulite Reduction: Individuals looking to improve the appearance of cellulite may find lymphatic drainage useful in reducing puffiness and promoting smoother skin by stimulating circulation and fluid removal.

• Athletes: Active individuals or athletes who experience muscle soreness or tension from physical activity can benefit from lymphatic drainage massage to reduce swelling and promote faster muscle recovery.

• Pregnant Women: Lymphatic drainage is gentle and can help expectant mothers with swelling, fluid retention, and overall comfort, especially in the later stages of pregnancy (always with doctor approval).

• Anyone Seeking Relaxation: If you're simply looking to reduce stress and improve circulation, lymphatic drainage massage is a relaxing, rejuvenating treatment that promotes a sense of well-being.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that can benefit anyone looking to enhance their health, improve circulation, or recover from surgery or injury. Always consult with a professional before starting any new massage therapy, especially if you have specific medical concerns.

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"Long used to help heal athletic injuries and post-surgical recovery, lymphatic drainage massage is now a favourite of the famous and fit" - The Guardian

 

How does it work?

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Lymphatic drainage works by stimulating the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in the body’s immune function and fluid balance. The lymphatic system transports lymph—a clear fluid that contains white blood cells and helps remove toxins, waste, and excess fluids from the body—through a network of lymph nodes and vessels. Here's how lymphatic drainage massage works:

1. Gentle, Rhythmic Pressure: During a lymphatic drainage massage, a trained therapist uses light, rhythmic strokes and gentle pressure to stimulate the lymphatic system. These techniques encourage the natural flow of lymph fluid, helping it move through the body more effectively.

2. Encouraging Fluid Movement: The massage targets lymph nodes and key areas of the body where fluid tends to accumulate (such as the neck, armpits, and groin). The pressure applied during the massage helps move excess fluids and toxins out of tissues and toward the lymph nodes, where they can be filtered and processed by the body.

3. Detoxification: As the lymph fluid moves more efficiently through the body, it helps flush out waste, toxins, and excess water, contributing to overall detoxification and reducing inflammation or swelling.

4. Boosting Circulation: By improving the movement of lymph fluid, the massage also enhances blood circulation, which promotes better oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells, helping to speed up healing and tissue repair.

5. Supporting Immune Function: As the lymphatic system is responsible for filtering out harmful substances, stimulating it with lymphatic drainage can enhance immune function by improving the body’s ability to remove waste and fight infections.

Overall, lymphatic drainage massage supports the body’s natural detox processes, reduces fluid retention, and can help relieve swelling, improve circulation, and promote overall health and relaxation.

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Every patient I see I consult thoroughly and often utilise a bespoke blend of massage modalities within a treatment, so lymphatic drainage can often be used with deep tissue massage to help flush toxins after working on deeper tissues for recovery.

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Post-Surgery Lymphatic Drainage​

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Every surgery results in some degree of swelling due to fluid build up in the body, particularly around the surgical site. This accumulation can cause discomfort and prolong the healing process. To help reduce and eliminate excess fluids, doctors often recommend lymphatic drainage massage.

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Post-operative lymphatic drainage massage is an effective technique for flushing out toxin-carrying fluids, reducing swelling, and enhancing recovery. The procedure itself is gentle, non-invasive, and often described as soothing and relaxing.​ The massage involves light, rhythmic rotating and pumping motions designed to stimulate the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body.

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Scar tissue: Beyond reducing swelling and discomfort, lymphatic drainage massage also plays a crucial role in preventing the formation of excessive scar tissue. After surgery, scar tissue can develop as part of the body’s natural healing process, but too much of it may lead to stiffness, restricted movement, and an uneven appearance. By improving circulation and breaking up adhesions, lymphatic massage helps ensure that scar tissue forms in a more controlled and even manner. This can lead to smoother, softer skin and a more aesthetically pleasing surgical outcome.

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Overall, incorporating lymphatic drainage massage into your post-operative care routine can accelerate healing, minimize pain, prevent excessive swelling and support the formation of healthy, flexible scar tissue.  Ultimately leading to a more comfortable and successful recovery from any surgery, including c - section and cosmetic surgeries

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Most medical professionals recommend beginning treatment 3-6 months post-surgery, please call Joanna on 07497161608 to discuss before booking **

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Post-Partum Lymphatic Drainage

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 Postpartum lymphatic drainage is a gentle, therapeutic massage designed to support new mothers in their recovery after childbirth. This technique helps to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and eliminate toxins that may accumulate in the body during pregnancy. By stimulating the lymphatic system, postpartum lymphatic drainage can also aid in restoring balance to the body, promote faster healing, and reduce the discomforts of fluid retention. Additionally, it can help alleviate stress, improve energy levels, and support overall well-being as you adjust to life after childbirth. 

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Key Benefits:

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• Balances Hormones: Helps regulate postpartum hormones, reducing mood swings and combating fatigue.

• Speeds Up Healing: Boosts circulation to promote faster tissue repair and support scar recovery.

• Eliminates Excess Fluids & Toxins: Assists in flushing out water retention and IV fluids from labor, reducing swelling.

• Promotes Relaxation: Relieves stress and enhances mental and physical well-being, counteracting the effects of sleep deprivation.

• Monitors Diastasis Recti: Supports the recovery of abdominal muscle separation and assists with healing.

• Improves Scar Healing: Beneficial for C-section recovery, improving scar tissue mobility and preventing adhesions.

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I can also utilize lymphatic drainage techniques during pregnancy massage to help mama-to-be flush toxins and fluids during pregnancy, this can be especially helpful for mothers-to-be experiencing swelling / oedema.

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Who might this treatment not be for?

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Here are the contraindications for lymphatic drainage massage :

• Acute infections (e.g., flu, cold, fever)

• Cancer (depending on type/stage)

• Congestive heart failure

• Severe arterial disease

• Kidney disease (severe)

• Blood clots (e.g., deep vein thrombosis /varicose veins )

• Open wounds or skin infections

• Severe edema of unknown cause

• Active inflammation (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

• Pregnancy (in some cases, particularly in the first trimester / 12 weeks or if there are any high risks)

• Severe asthma or respiratory conditions

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If you have experienced any of the above conditions, please call me to notify me before booking a treatment. In some cases I may be able to proceed with treatment following guidance or permission from a medical professional. Thank you. ​

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Aftercare for Manual Lymphatic Drainage

• Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and support lymph flow.

• Rest – Avoid heavy exercise and allow your body time to recover for 24 hours.

• Avoid Heat – Skip hot showers, baths, or saunas right after the treatment.

• Gentle Movement – Light walking or stretching can enhance the benefits of the treatment.

• Wear Loose Clothing – Avoid tight clothing to allow your lymphatic system to flow freely.

• Monitor for Swelling – Mild swelling is normal and should subside in a few hours; contact me if it persists.

• Avoid Alcohol – Refrain from alcohol for 24 hours to support detoxification.

• Give Your Body Time – Allow up to 48 hours for your body to fully process the treatment.

• Book another massage!  For lasting results consistency is key!

 

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out!

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Book your lymphatic drainage massage in Cheltenham now and start to see results from your first treatment!

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