What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Spa Sci-fi?
It may sound like a medical procedure straight out of a science fiction movie, and spa clients may be turned off by its unglam name initially, but once they discover the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage, they’re hooked.

Benefits of lymphatic drainage range from a decrease in facial puffiness and a boost in immune function to a smoothing of cellulite and a soothing of muscle soreness.

After spa-goers have had a lymphatic drainage massage, they may never go back to a regular massage again!

The Story Behind the Treatment
The specific treatment, actually called manual lymph drainage (usually referred to as MLD) was developed in the 1930s in France by Emil Vodder, a Danish physical therapist, and his wife, Estrid, a naturopath.

Their method is still taught to spa therapists at Dr. Vodder Schools around the world though not all therapists use the Vodder method; some learn lymphatic drainage through a course in massage school, or through training in Ayurveda or naturopathy.

A 160-hour training is required for medical MLD.

Good to Know:
Lymphatic drainage massage helps deliver cellular waste and microscopic villains like viruses and bacteria, which may cause cellulite, to the lymph nodes.

These filter-like masses, which are found from head-to-toe, deliver this material to the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

This drainage is essential because the lymphatic system lacks a pump of its own to transport the lymph through the body and must rely on movement, muscular contraction, and massage to flush the fluid.

Before you go:
At spas, a lymphatic massage, which may or may not be classical MLD, lasts 30 to 90 minutes and consists of very gentle, rhythmic pressure, whispery soft finger strokes, or ultralight drumming, about the same as one would use to stroke the face of a significant other.

The therapist will stretch the skin in the direction of the lymph pathways toward the lymph nodes. The logic is that this will counteract the lymph system’s tendency to become sluggish or even blocked by causes like spending too much time on the couch or eating unhealthy processed foods.

Lymphatic drainage is credited with preventing swelling and bruising, healing acne and wrinkles, relieving fatigue and sports injuries, and generally enhancing the immune system, to name a few other benefits.

Lymphatic drainage is sometimes so relaxing that clients are lulled to sleep during treatments, and the fact that the massage doesn’t necessitate any direct pressure explains why it’s appropriate and often prescribed for reducing swelling following surgery or injury.

Some basic light strokes include “stationary circles,” “pump,” and “scoop”—no kneading or deep muscle work. This massage is actually a draining process intended to firm and tone skin and to improve health.

No massage oils here, so lymphatic drainage can focus on the face, the entire body, or just on swollen and bloated areas.

Those who decide to relax with lymphatic drainage should be prepared to feel a little off-kilter following a massage. It’s a little like a post-party hangover, so drinking lots of water is key!

Some spas may begin the massage by dry brushing the skin, which is another means of accomplishing lymphatic drainage.

Spa Faith vs. Fact
Like many things, it’s buyer beware with lymphatic drainage. It’s important to separate spa fact from spa faith.

Some spas may make scientific-sounding statements about the lymph system, and consumers should be wary.

We do know that MLD can affect the lymph system, but exactly how much is controversial; it is very beneficial for those with compromised immune systems; and it may hold benefits for basically healthy people, but opinions differ between the spa and medical worlds.

Best for:
Lymphatic-drainage massage is considered a staple practice for reducing swelling, relieving fatigue, or helping the body detox (removing waste from our own metabolic processes, not heavy metals or pollutants), which is why it’s included in spa fasting, cleansing, and smoking-cessation programs.

Some facialists have seen great improvement of dark under-eye circles with the Vodder method in facials.

Lymphatic-drainage massage can also offer some relief for fluid retention brought on by travel, menstruation, or pregnancy.