Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a technique based on the assumption that manual pressure will encourage the flow of lymph from the tissues and back to the heart. Lymph carries waste products away from the tissues and back to the heart. Manual Lymphatic Drainage involves gentle massage techniques to the inguinal lymph nodes and other areas of the body. This technique is often used to improve lymph circulation and eliminate toxins and excess fluids.
Inguinal lymph nodes
Inguinal lymph nodes are located below the inguinal ligament and drain into the external iliac arteries. This drainage system aids the body’s immune system by filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance in the bloodstream. There are two types of inguinal lymph nodes: superficial and deep. The superficial group drains skin and fasciae from the upper thigh and buttock, while the deep group drains the pancreas, liver, and spleen.
A deep inguinal lymph node drains the lymph vessels in the femoral canal. If there is no deep inguinal lymph node, the lymph vessels drain directly to the medial iliac lymph node. The superficial inguinal lymph nodes are located above the posterolateral heel, whereas the deeper inguinal lymph nodes are below the fascia lata.
Compression strokes along lymph vessels
The hydrodynamics of the lymphatic system are probably responsible for the movement of lymph through the body. The average flow rate of lymphatic vessels is around 14 mL/hour, but the flow can vary significantly from one vessel to another. Lymphatic shear stress is approximately 0.4-0.6 dynes/cm2, with a maximum of three to ten dynes/cm2.
Manual lymphatic drainage is usually combined with other treatments, such as skin care and exercise to aid in the removal of toxins from the body. A recent study examined lymphatic drainage massage combined with compression bandages and exercise to help breast cancer patients with lymphedema. The massage proved to be more effective than compression alone for reducing edema and improving overall health. This is a great way to relieve pain and improve overall health.
The benefits of increased lymphatic drainage are numerous. This treatment may help reduce pain and swelling, which are common side effects of injury. This increased flow of lymphatic fluid will reduce metabolic wastes and improve the overall recovery process. Moreover, this type of massage can reduce muscle fatigue and swell. Furthermore, it may even help improve sleep quality. By improving the circulation and function of the lymphatic system, the patient may experience fewer headaches, fatigue, and immobility.
Methods
Lymphatic drainage is a massage technique that moves fluid along the skin and subcutaneous collaterals. The goal of lymph drainage is to clear the system of lymph fluids in a proximal to distal gradient. It has become an important therapy for musculoskeletal disorders. This treatment can improve blood circulation and relieve swelling. It also helps improve overall health. Mobile lymphatic drainage help improve the appearance of your skin.
There are many different techniques for performing lymphatic drainage. Therapists must know how to perform the technique correctly. For example, it is not recommended for people who have active viruses, inflamed acne, or high blood pressure. They should also avoid performing the treatment on pregnant women. Additionally, the technique must be applied in the direction of the heart and should be performed three times a week. It is also important to note that there are contraindications to lymphatic drainage.
Conditions that benefit from lymphatic drainage
Lymphatic drainage can help with a variety of medical conditions. Inefficient lymphatic system can lead to swelling of the legs or arms, which is uncomfortable and increases the risk of infection. Lymphedema is one of the many side effects of cancer treatments. The symptoms of lymphedema can be alleviated with a lymphatic drainage massage. Your healthcare provider can recommend a lymph drainage massage to help you manage your condition.
Professionally performed lymphatic drainage massage is recommended for anyone who wants to improve the circulation of their body fluids and speed the removal of waste materials from their tissues. This massage uses light pressure, usually in stroking motions, to stimulate the lymphatic vessels and remove fluid from swollen areas. In a lymphatic drainage massage, the therapist applies soft, circular movements to the face and neck in a slow, rhythmical pattern. The practitioner may begin at the toes and work toward the heart while stroking the skin. This type of massage is relaxing and people often fall asleep during the treatment.