What the lymphatic system does
Lymph is the fluid that drains from your tissues, carrying waste products, excess fluid and immune cells. Unlike blood, it has no heart to pump it. It moves through muscle contraction, breathing, and the gentle pressure of the tissues around it, passing through lymph nodes that filter it before it rejoins the circulation near the collarbones. When drainage is slow, fluid accumulates and tissues feel puffy, heavy or swollen.
What the massage involves
A trained therapist uses very light, slow, stretching strokes on the skin, always in the direction of lymph flow, starting near the nodes and working outwards so there is somewhere for the fluid to go. The pressure is far lighter than a conventional massage, because lymph vessels sit just under the skin and firm pressure closes them. A session usually begins at the neck and works through the trunk, then the limbs or area of concern. Sessions are 45 to 60 minutes.
What it is used for
Swelling after surgery, including cosmetic and orthopaedic procedures. Lymphoedema management as part of a clinical plan. Fluid retention, heavy legs and bloating. Recovery after illness or injury. Pre-event preparation, such as before a wedding or holiday, for a lighter, less puffy feel. Some people use it for general wellbeing and relaxation.
What it is not
It is not a detox, it does not remove fat, and it is not a treatment for cellulite. Claims of that kind are not supported.
At Omnia
Manual lymphatic drainage at our Chiswick clinic is delivered by trained therapists and can be combined with Body Ballancer compression therapy for the legs and abdomen. We screen for conditions where drainage is not appropriate, such as active infection, untreated thrombosis or heart failure.