Lymphatic drainage massage, which can be part of post-surgery recovery, is popular on social media and in wellness clinics. You may have heard that it can reduce swelling, improve circulation or “detox” the body. The treatment has certain medical uses but some claims are exaggerated or misunderstood.
Jennifer Morris, DPT, a physical therapist with Banner Physical Therapy, explained how lymphatic drainage works and what to consider if you’re thinking about trying it.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that carries lymph fluid throughout your body. It helps:
- Support your immune system
- Balance the fluid levels in your body
- Remove waste and excess fluid from your tissues
While your circulatory system relies on your heart to pump blood through your body, your lymphatic system does not have a similar pump to move its fluids. Instead, movement and muscle activity keep your lymph fluid flowing.
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, rhythmic massage designed to move lymph fluid through your body. It uses light pressure, not deep-tissue techniques. These massages can be offered in spas for different purposes and quality can vary.
Training is important. People can claim to do lymphatic massage with no training or education. Look for credentials after their names such as CLT, which stands for certified lymphedema therapist.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a similar, specialized medical technique that lightly stretches the skin. It’s used to treat lymphedema.
Potential benefits of lymphatic drainage massage
Benefits depend on what benefit you’re hoping to gain. They are not the same for everyone. Lymphatic drainage massage may:
- Help your body remove excess fluid, so you may notice less swelling, heaviness, tightness or fluid buildup. You may find you need to urinate more or have more bowel movements after a treatment.
- Support your immune system, since the lymphatic system plays an important role in the immune system.
- Reduce pain, because the light pressure can trigger a pain-relieving response.
- Help you feel calmer and more relaxed, because you’re encouraged to work with your breath to stimulate your diaphragm, like you would in a yoga practice.
What lymphatic drainage massage does not do
While a lymphatic drainage massage can help your body move and clear fluids, it does not “detox” your body.
Lymphatic drainage does not lead to fat or weight loss but it might make you feel less puffy. And removing excess fluid could seem like a weight loss benefit.
“I would be leery of anyone claiming that lymphatic drainage massage could be used as a weight loss program,” Morris said. Before-and-after results you see online could be temporary or misleading.
Who may benefit from lymphatic drainage massage
The people who could benefit the most are those who have a lymphatic system disorder. “For example, I work with patients who have had surgery on the lymph nodes after a cancer diagnosis. I help these patients by re-routing and encouraging alternate routes for fluid movement after surgery,” Morris said.
People with healthy lymphatic systems may notice secondary benefits, like relaxation, pain relief, more movement through the digestive system and reduced puffiness overall.
A medical evaluation can help you find out if you might benefit.
Who should avoid lymphatic drainage massage
You should not have lymphatic drainage massage if you have:
- Active infections, especially on the skin
- Blood clots or clotting disorders, including active deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Certain heart conditions including congestive heart failure
- Kidney disease or failure
- Some cancer-related situations
You should be cautious with lymphatic drainage massage if you have diabetes, since it could affect the way your body regulates blood sugar.
Always talk with a health care provider before starting a new treatment.
At-home lymphatic support vs. professional treatment
You can take steps to support your lymphatic system at home. “The best thing you can do is move your body. Nothing helps like exercising,” Morris said. Staying hydrated can also help.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a lymphatic system disorder, compression garments, daily wrapping and exercise can help you maintain the benefits you get from manual lymphatic drainage performed by a medical specialist.
DIY massage techniques or tools like gua sha and facial rollers, compression boots and recovery tools are designed for comfort or cosmetic use. They are not medical treatments. Doing lymphatic drainage massage at home without guidance could be ineffective or even unsafe.
When should you see a doctor for swelling?
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Fullness, heaviness, aches or sensation changes in your hands or feet
- Jewelry that feels tight for a few days in a row and doesn’t change if you elevate that part of your body
- Symptoms you can’t explain or that are getting worse
Lymphedema is a lifetime disease and catching it early means you can find out what’s causing it and start treatment.
When swelling may be a medical issue
Get care right away for:
- Sudden or one-sided swelling
- Pain, redness or warmth
- Swelling that does not improve
- Symptoms that worsen over time
- Concerns after surgery
The bottom line
Lymphatic drainage massage can be helpful in certain situations but many popular claims are false or exaggerated. Knowing what lymphatic drainage massage can and can’t do helps you decide whether you should try it.
If you have swelling or questions about lymphatic drainage, a Banner Health provider can review your symptoms and recommend safe, effective options to treat them.
FAQs
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
A gentle massage technique that helps move lymph fluid and may reduce swelling in certain conditions.
Does lymphatic drainage massage help with weight loss?
No. It does not cause fat loss or long-term weight changes.
Is lymphatic drainage massage safe after surgery?
Sometimes but only if it’s recommended by your provider.
Can you do lymphatic drainage massage at home?
Some gentle techniques may help but improper methods can be ineffective or unsafe.
What are signs of poor lymphatic drainage?
Swelling, heaviness or fluid buildup that does not improve.
