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MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

Within us all there is a silent system working to keep us healthy- the lymph system.

Without it our bodies would swell up like balloons, swamping our cells with stagnant fluid. The lymph system's impact is so far reaching that many don't even realize that minor aches and pains, low energy or susceptibility to colds and flu may be due to a sluggish lymph system and a compromised immune system. In this article we’ll discuss the anatomy of the lymph system, what happens during edema and how lymph drainage massage can help, as well as contraindications to lymphatic mass Lymphatic drainage massage is a profound technique to help increase lymph flow. With an increase of lymph flow immune function is increased. Harmful substances are removed from the tissues and neutralized in the nodes. It has also been shown that an increase in lymph flow stimulates an increased production of lymphocytes- enhancing immune function. Lymphatic drainage can be applied to clients whoa re suffering from a lack of energy, or a sluggish immune system. Lymphatic drainage massage is also useful when working with clients who have sports injuries. After the initial inflammatory stage has passed, lymphatic work can be applied after Sports or Neuromuscular massage has been completed. This will help to clear the tissue of debris, and help to reduce the minor edema that sometimes occurs after deep massage. Continued applications of lymphatic drainage while the client is healing can help to enhance the tissue regeneration process by keep the tissue as healthy as possible. Not only is lymphatic drainage useful for sports injuries, but it can also help scars. Lymph work has been shown to help the scarring process by enhancing circulation and immunity. As the lymph flow around the scar is increased, lymph vessels that have been damaged are stimulated to heal, and the increased lymph flow also draws away toxins, improving the health of the tissues

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

For the most part lymphatic drainage massage is safe. With such a light touch,the danger of causing damage to the tissue is slim. However, there are a fewconditions that are contraindicated, and these happen when an increase of lymph flow would be detrimental. It is required to get clearance from their doctor when some conditions are present as: Acute inflammation, Malignant tumors, Thrombosis and major heart problems are all contraindications to lymphatic drainage massage. Lets look at these one at a time. Acute inflammation caused by bacteria, viruses, poisons or allergens is contraindicated. You can tell if this is the case because the tissues will be hot, red and painful, with congestion accompanied by fever. Lymphatic drainage massage will push these substances into the lymph channels before the body has a chance to eliminate them through phagocytosis in the interstitial spaces. If performed, lymphatic drainage can spread the toxic substances throughout the body. It will be better to wait a few days until the condition is not acute, and the body has had a chance to clean up the area .

Malignant tumors are a contraindication for lymphatic drainage massage because of the fear of spreading the cancer. Wait until after the malignancy is treated to perform lymphatic drainage massage. Thrombosis and phlebitis are two conditions that can lead to free floating blood clots.Usually people with these conditions will be in a hospital on blood thinners.If you are working in a hospital setting, do not work on these patients. Inyour practice, one indication of a possible femoral thrombosis is when theclient has pain in one leg and a sudden swelling and bluish discoloration ofthe skin. People who are bedridden have a greater likelihood of developingthrombosis in the legs. Majorheart problems. If the heart is not fully functioning the edema can belymphodynamic, due to lack of venous return. Putting more fluid into the heartwould only stress it more, worsening the condition...

Location:

Rossie Skin Care

220 Sandy Springs Place Suite B

Atlanta, GA 30328-4108

404-455-6828

Hours:

Mon - Fri: 9AM - 5PM

Sat: 10AM - 5PM

Sun: Closed

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