|
|
|
The lymphatic system is one of the three fluid circulatory systems of the body. The other two are the blood circulation and the cerebrospinal fluid circulation. The lymphatics consists of a system of ducts and vessels, the lymph nodes and the lymph fluid. The main work of the lymphatic system is to drain the tissues, return tissue fluids back into circulation and remove metabolic waste products, proteins and toxins that have built up in the tissues.
Most people have heard of or felt "swollen glands" in the neck. These "glands" are lymph nodes that become congested due to build up of toxic waste in the tissues and lack of circulation of the blood and lymph fluid. This lack of circulation is also apparent as sluggishness, puffiness, congestion and swelling; it often accompanies colds, flus, sinusitis, earache, allergies, sore throat, hay fever, inflammation, pain and other toxic, congestive conditions.
Lymphatic Massage is a form of massage that consists of special strokes that "pump" the fluid through the lymph vessels and lymph nodes. This helps reduce swelling, congestion and helps cleanse the tissues of toxins. Typical lymphatic strokes are slow, light, gentle yet firm. Lymph reflex points are often stimulated to assist tissue drainage. The recipient of a lymphatic massage usually feels clear, light, energetic, less congested and less pain.
Special Considerations: Lymphatic massage can help restore metabolic balance, assist tissue fluid circulation, detoxify and cleanse, reduce swelling, decrease pain, increase immune function, reduce sinus congestion and support weight loss. It is very helpful for children and adults with chronic ear infections, sinusitis, sore throat, edema, inflammation, circulatory problems and toxic buildup.
Key Uses: Childhood infections, weight loss, detoxificaiton, seasonal cleasning, colds and flu.
Contraindications: Lymphatic cancer, leukemia, Hodgkins disease, lymphoma. Cancer patients may safely receive Lymphatic Massage since it is benefical like therapeutic or Swedish massage, but it is a good idea to consult with your physician.
Note: Healing Waters Clinic refers masectomy cases to practitioners of Vodder's or other Manual Lymph Drainage techniques.
Professional Reference Information: Laurence Layne, LMT has taken classes in Lymphatic Massage at the Atlanta School of Massage, Atlanta, Georgia. He has used lymphatic techniques for ear infections, detoxification, cleansing and as a way to releive congestion in tissues for pain relief. He has integrated Reflexology, Polarity techniques, Chapman's Reflexes and Attunement into his lymphatic approach. He likes to refer to his lymph work as "naturopathic" lymphatic massage.