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What is Lymph Massage?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Lymph massage is a type of massage which is designed to promote the healthy flow of lymph, the clear fluid which supports immune system function by flowing through the body and sequestering foreign material like viruses. Proponents believe that the massage eliminates blockages in the lymphatic system, while also helping to pull out toxins. This type of massage is generally very gentle, but there are some serious contraindications, because massage work around the lymphatic system can make some medical conditions worse. Therefore, it is important to talk to a doctor before booking an appointment for lymph massage.

According to practitioners, lymph massage reduces swelling and clears the lymphatic system so that lymph can move freely through the body. The massage also stimulates the flow of other interstitial fluids in the body, theoretically encouraging the fluid to pull out toxins so that they can be sequestered by the lymph system.

The lymphatic system, shown in green.
The lymphatic system, shown in green.

Some practitioners recommend this type of massage right before surgery, to ensure that the lymphatic system is clear. It may also be used after surgery to reduce swelling. Some practitioners offer breast massage to pregnant women and nursing mothers to reduce the aches and pains associated with the changes in breast tissue that occur during pregnancy. Lymph massage can also be used as a tool for general well-being.

A doctor should always be consulted before considering lymph massage.
A doctor should always be consulted before considering lymph massage.

You may hear this type of massage called lymphatic massage, lymphatic drainage, or manual lymphatic drainage. People with inflammations and current infections should not get lymph massage, because the massage can encourage the spread of the infection. It is also contraindicated for people with tumors and undiagnosed lumps, as well as people with clotting issues and heart problems, as it can make all of these conditions worse.

Patients suffering with lymphadema may benefit from manual lymph drainage.
Patients suffering with lymphadema may benefit from manual lymph drainage.

This style of massage has been practiced since the 1930s. Depending on where a practitioner trains, he or she may use a variety of techniques in lymph massage. Generally, the touch is very light, and the patient may remain clothed or nude, depending on personal comfort levels. Clients should always communicate about pain during the massage, and they should also be aware that swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of a serious health condition which requires medical treatment, not massage.

When seeking a practitioner, be sure to ask about where he or she trained. A reputable massage therapist will be happy to provide credentials such as proof of membership in a professional organization, and he or she should also be honest with you if lymph massage is contraindicated in your case.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon95275

The results of lymphatic massage are beneficial, but not during chemotherapy.

cmsmith10

Lymphatic massage is a delicate and very useful form of massage used to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system. It utilizes light pressure and soft pumping movement in the direction of the lymph nodes. It is amazing how much your immune system can be increased with this massage. When your immune system is strong, it makes you feel balanced and whole.

Lymphatic massage improves your metabolism and also helps your body to eliminate toxins and waste.

Tmuir53

As an oncology massage therapist I would like to add that it is never a good idea to get a lymphatic massage during chemotherapy. First, it would be too taxing on the body to detoxify during treatment. Secondly, it is very important that the chemo stays in a patient and lymphatic massage could possibly accelerate the body's natural lymphatic process of clearing waste from the body. This is not to be confused with manual lymphatic massage, which might need do be done if a patient has lymphedema and can't wait until after chemotherapy to start treatment.

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    • The lymphatic system, shown in green.
      By: Sebastian Kaulitzki
      The lymphatic system, shown in green.
    • A doctor should always be consulted before considering lymph massage.
      By: Syda Productions
      A doctor should always be consulted before considering lymph massage.
    • Patients suffering with lymphadema may benefit from manual lymph drainage.
      By: lekcej
      Patients suffering with lymphadema may benefit from manual lymph drainage.