Lymphatic drainage is a type of gentle massage that aims to move extra lymph fluid out of the body. Some people use it to try to reduce swelling, heal from surgery, or improve conditions like lymphedema. But is there evidence that lymphatic drainage actually works? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and is made up of lymph vessels, lymph nodes, and lymph fluid. Lymph fluid carries things like proteins, water, waste products, and white blood cells through the lymph vessels and helps the body fight infection.
Lymphatic drainage massage aims to move extra lymph fluid through congested areas so it can drain properly. A massage therapist uses light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate lymph flow. The strokes are gentle and don’t go deeper than the skin.
What Are the Claims About Lymphatic Drainage Benefits?
Supporters claim lymphatic drainage massage offers these health perks:
- Reduces swelling (edema). The massage may move fluid out of swollen areas and reduce edema in conditions like lymphedema.
- Speeds surgery recovery. It may reduce fluid buildup and swelling after plastic surgery or other operations.
- Supports the immune system. Some therapists claim it bolsters immunity by improving lymph flow.
- Detoxifies the body. The massage may help the body get rid of wastes, bacteria, and other “toxins.”
- Relieves pain and muscle soreness.
- Treats sinus problems, cellulite, digestive issues, headaches, and other conditions.
Does Lymphatic Drainage Massage Really Work?
Research on lymphatic drainage massage is limited so far, but some studies suggest it may offer certain benefits:
May Help Reduce Swelling After Surgery
Some research found lymphatic drainage can reduce edema and discomfort after plastic surgery procedures like liposuction. It seems most useful when done right after surgery.
In one study, patients who got the massage for 4 days after liposuction had less lower limb swelling compared to those who didn’t get it. The massage was most effective when started immediately after surgery.
May Improve Some Lymphedema Symptoms
Lymphedema causes fluid buildup and swelling, often in the arms or legs. It happens when lymph vessels or nodes don’t drain properly.
Some research suggests lymphatic drainage massage may help improve lymphedema symptoms:
- A study in people with arm lymphedema found a specialized technique called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) reduced edema and discomfort significantly more than standard therapy.
- Another study found MLD significantly reduced arm swelling and skin hardness in women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.
- However, one review concluded there wasn’t strong evidence that MLD improves arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery.
More high quality studies are needed on how well lymphatic drainage massage works for lymphedema.
May Improve Quality of Life for Some Cancer Patients
Some research indicates lymphatic drainage massage may enhance quality of life during cancer treatment or recovery:
- A study found massage improved well-being, reduced pain, and decreased arm volume in women with arm lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.
- Another study discovered MLD reduced pain and discomfort in people having radiation therapy for head and neck cancers.
However, not all studies have found significant benefits, and more research is needed.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
When done correctly by a qualified therapist, lymphatic drainage massage is very gentle and doesn’t usually cause side effects or harm. However, there are some potential risks:
- Increased swelling: Sometimes swelling temporarily increases during or after drainage therapy before it gets better. This is usually a normal part of the healing process.
- Pain: The massage may cause mild achiness or discomfort at first, especially in swollen areas. Tell your therapist if any pain feels too intense.
- Spread of cancer: Very limited evidence raises some concern that lymphatic massage could theoretically help spread cancer cells through the lymph system in people with cancer. However, this risk hasn’t been proven or well-studied.
- Infections: There’s a small chance of passing infections between people through massage. This can usually be avoided with good hygiene practices.
Talk to your doctor before getting lymphatic drainage if you have a serious health condition, take blood thinners, have an infection or open wound, or are pregnant. People with heart failure, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, and some other conditions may need to avoid this therapy.
Who Should Consider Getting Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage may benefit some people with:
- Swelling after plastic surgery or injury
- Lymphedema
- Head and neck cancers
- Breast cancer-related lymphedema
There isn’t strong evidence that it helps other conditions like cellulite, weight loss, immunity, sinus problems, or headaches. Talk to your doctor to see if it may be worth trying for your health concerns.
How to Find a Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
Look for an experienced massage therapist who has specific training in lymphatic drainage techniques. They may have certifications like:
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT)
- Lymphatic Enhancement Advanced Techniques (LE&AT)
- Vodder Technique Certification
Ask about their background, training, and experience in lymphatic drainage therapy. Also check with your insurance to see if any part of the treatment is covered.
What to Expect During a Session
During a lymphatic drainage massage session, you’ll remove clothing to expose the area being worked on. You’ll lie down on a table or sit in a chair. The therapist will start with very light stroking movements in the direction of lymph flow:
- Toward lymph nodes (often in the neck, underarms, and groin)
- Toward the heart
They may use a very light oil to allow their hands to glide smoothly over the skin. The strokes are gentle and relaxing, but you may feel some mild discomfort initially if there is a lot of swelling.
A full session often lasts 45-60 minutes. Your therapist will teach you self-massage techniques to use between sessions. Most people need 10-15 professional massages spaced a few days or weeks apart, then monthly maintenance sessions.
The Bottom Line
Evidence for lymphatic drainage massage benefits is limited but promising for some conditions. It may help reduce swelling after surgery or injury and improve symptoms in lymphedema or cancer-related swelling. However, results vary between studies, and more research is needed.
Lymphatic drainage is very gentle with low risk of side effects. It may be worth trying if you have swelling in a particular area that hasn’t gotten better with standard treatment. But it isn’t proven to help general detox, immunity, cellulite, or weight loss.
Talk to your doctor or a certified lymphatic therapist to find out if this specialized massage could benefit your health.