How to Do Lymphatic Drainage

If you’re managing lymphedema, lipedema, or a similar condition, you can find relief from pain and swelling right at home. Lymphatic drainage offers notable benefits for reducing swelling in your arms, legs, or other affected areas by promoting effective lymphatic drainage. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to perform lymphatic drainage and explore the many benefits it may have for improving your comfort and well-being.

What Is the Lymphatic System?
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Treatment?
○ How Does Lymphatic Drainage Work?
How to Do a Lymphatic Drainage Treatment
○ Head and Neck Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
○ Upper Body Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
○ Lower Body Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
What Are the Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage?
How Can Self-Manual Lymphatic Drainage Help With Lymphedema?
Lymphatic Drainage FAQs
Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways About Lymphatic Drainage

What Is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is a network in your body that consists of vessels, nodes, and organs, all of which help fight foreign invaders and move lymph fluid back into your circulatory system from your body’s tissues. The fluid that flows through your lymphatic system is part of your immune system and consists of fat, water, protein, cellular debris, and white blood cells. The lymph nodes and vessels help filter lymph fluids to remove cellular waste from the body.

When there’s a disruption in your lymphatic system, it can interrupt the flow of fluid. Instead of that fluid reentering your bloodstream, it will remain in the tissues, which may eventually lead to swelling. This swelling as a result of a buildup of fluid is known as lymphedema, and it can lead to pain, swelling, blisters, skin ulcers, and infections if left untreated. If you think you may have lymphedema, you should talk to your doctor about lymphedema treatment options.

Before you learn how to do lymphatic drainage, you should ask your doctor or lymphedema therapist if it’s right for you. While lymphatic drainage can produce great results for some people, they may not work for everyone. You may also need to modify self-manual lymph drainage if you have skin ulcers, edema blisters, or other skin problems as a result of lymphedema. Additionally, you can visit a lymphedema specialist who can perform lymphatic drainage for you, as well as teach you proper techniques to try at home.

What Is a Lymphatic Drainage Treatment?

Lymphatic drainage treatment is an important part of complete decongestive therapy, a comprehensive treatment approach for relieving swelling, also known as edema, in your arms, legs or other body regions as a result of lymphedema. The technique enhances lymph flow, helping to promote lymphatic drainage. By gently applying hands-on techniques to the tissues, you can relieve some of the swelling and pain that can come with lymphedema. A certified lymphedema therapist can perform a manual lymphatic drainage treatment. They also educate you on how to perform self-manual lymphatic drainage at home, empowering you to manage your symptoms between professional sessions.

How Does a Lymphatic Drainage Treatment Work?

Lymphatic drainage treatment involves two main steps to help you reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

In the first step, known as clearing, the certified lymphedema therapist uses light, rhythmic hands-on movements to stimulate lymph nodes and create pathways for fluid to move. By doing this, the lymph fluid is released from swollen tissues, paving the way for smoother drainage.

The second step is reabsorption. Here, the previously released fluid is guided toward the lymph nodes. The therapist applies soft pressure, encouraging the fluid to move through the lymphatic system. Once in the lymph nodes, the fluid is filtered and recirculated into your bloodstream, promoting detoxification and reducing swelling.

How to Do a Lymphatic Drainage Treatment

With the right techniques, you can perform lymphatic drainage at home. Whether you’re targeting lymphedema or looking to find relief from swelling, these steps can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. Aside from deep breathing, each step in the treatment should be repeated 10 to 15 times. Here’s a complete breakdown of how to do a lymphatic drainage for different areas of the body.

Head and Neck Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

Head and neck lymphatic drainage is a soothing practice that enhances lymph flow, helping you reduce tension and swelling in these areas. By incorporating these specific techniques into your routine, you can enhance your body’s natural detoxification process.

1. Practice deep breathing
Before you begin your lymphatic massage, take a moment to practice deep breathing. Deep breathing can help stimulate your lymphatic system to encourage drainage, which is what you’re trying to accomplish with this massage treatment. Breathe in slowly through your nose and out slowly through your mouth. Focus on your breaths and make sure they are slow, deep, and steady.

2. Apply gentle strokes to the front of your neck
Take your index finger and your middle finger and place them on one side of your neck just above the collarbone. Gently stroke down toward your collarbone and inward toward the center of your neck in a “J” shape. If you’re going to treat both sides of your neck at the same time, you should cross your arms.

3. Gently stroke the sides of your neck
Next, place one or both hands on the sides of your neck below your ears. Gently stroke toward the back of your head, then in a downward motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as the neck may be a tender area.

4. Gently stroke the back of your neck
This is the last step of the head and neck lymphatic drainage sequence. Put your hands on the back of your neck, right below the hairline. Stretch your skin inward, then down toward your back, and release it. Remember to be gentle, as this may be a tender area of your neck.

Upper Body Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

Enhancing lymph flow in the upper body can significantly improve your overall well-being. This gentle drainage sequence targets key areas to promote circulation and reduce tension.

1. Treat the chest
Begin by placing your hands on your chest, just below the collarbone. Use gentle, circular motions to move outward towards your shoulders. This helps stimulate the lymph nodes and encourages fluid movement. Remember to always focus on deep, calming breaths as you are treating, allowing your body to relax.

2. Treat the shoulder
Place your hand on the opposite shoulder and gently knead the muscle in circular motions. Work your way from the neck outward to the shoulder joint. Be sure to use light pressure and maintain a soothing rhythm.

3. Treat the upper arm
Start at the shoulder and glide your hand down the outside of your upper arm to your elbow, using smooth, gentle strokes. Repeat this motion, then switch to the inner arm and perform the same process.

4. Treat the lower arm
Move to the lower arm, beginning at the elbow and sliding your hand down towards the wrist. Use a light, stretching motion, alternating between the inner and outer arm.

5. Treat the fingers
Finally, gently stroke each finger from base to tip using a twisting motion. Apply light pressure and focus on each joint. This step improves lymph flow in the hands and fingers, reducing any swelling and tension. Finish by shaking out your hands to release any remaining stress.

Lower Body Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

If you have lymphedema in the feet or other areas of the lower body prone to edema, promoting lymphatic flow is essential. These targeted drainage techniques for the lower body improve circulation and alleviate tension, helping you feel more comfortable.

1. Open up your chest
For this step, raise the arm on the affected leg side slightly and place your opposite hand against that underarm. To perform this lymphatic drainage, pull up and inward 10 to 15 times, but be careful, as this can be a sensitive area. If you’re experiencing discomfort during this step, apply less pressure when treating your underarm.

2. Stroke from your hip to your underarm
Now, lift the arm straight up, exposing the side of your body that’s affected by lymphedema. Take the opposite hand and place it flat on your exposed hip. Next, stroke from your hip up the side of your body to your underarms using short strokes. Don’t stretch your skin any further than it naturally goes.

3. Treat your upper leg
Once you’ve prepared of the upper body, you’ll want to get into a different position to treat your leg. Try placing your foot on the other knee, resting your foot on a stool, or putting your foot on a stable object that’s a little higher to find a comfortable position that doesn’t cause back strain.

For the upper leg treatment, place one hand on the inside of your leg and one hand on the back of your leg. Gently stroke from the inside of your leg toward your hip and the side of your body, moving further down your leg and repeating these steps until you’ve stroked your way to your knee. Then, gently stroke from your knee up the side of your body and toward your underarm.

4. Treat your knee
Next, it’s time to treat your knee. You can do this by placing both of your hands behind your knee and gently stroking in a “J” shape. This is another area that can be sensitive if you press too hard, so make sure you’re gently stroking the back of your knee 10 to 15 times.

5. Treat your lower leg
For your lower leg, place one hand on your shin and the other hand below your knee. Gently stroke upward with both hands to encourage lymphatic fluid to flow upward, occasionally moving down a bit lower on the leg. Once you’ve reached the ankle, you can move on to the next step.

6. Treat your ankles and feet
Treating your ankles and feet is a simple process once you’ve treated your lower legs. Simply repeat the same motion you used to treat your lower legs on your ankles and feet, and remember to always stroke upward toward your lower legs to promote the flow of lymph fluid.

7. Treat your toes
If your toes are swollen, you can gently stroke them to release some of the built-up lymph fluid. Use your index finger and thumb to gently stretch from the end of your toes toward your feet, being extra careful not to press too hard.

What Are the Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage?

The gentle, therapeutic technique of a lymphatic drainage is designed to support the body’s natural processes, similar to the benefits of compression therapy. By encouraging the flow of lymph fluid, lymphatic drainage offers a range of advantages that can enhance your well-being, such as:

• Reduce swelling: One of the primary benefits of a lymphatic massage drainage is its ability to reduce swelling. Facilitating the movement of lymph fluid helps to decrease puffiness and promote a more balanced fluid distribution in the body.
• Improve circulation: This drainage technique enhances blood flow and lymph circulation, which can improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Better circulation helps to keep your body functioning and supports quicker recovery from physical exertion or injury.
• Relieve pain: The gentle pressure used in lymphatic drainage also helps to alleviate discomfort and soothe sore areas by reducing pressure on nerves and tissues.
• Improve immune system health: Lymphatic drainage also bolsters the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. An efficiently working lymphatic system helps in the removal of toxins and waste.

How Can Self-Manual Lymphatic Drainage Help With Lymphedema?

There are a handful of lymphedema treatment and management options, so where does a self-manual lymph drainage fit into your treatment plan? While lymphatic drainage isn’t a substitute for other treatment methods, it can be an effective way to relieve swelling and pain from lymphedema without visiting a doctor. By moving lymph fluid away from the areas where there’s increased swelling, you can relieve some of that swelling as well as the symptoms of lymphedema.

Lymphatic Drainage FAQs

How do you know if you need lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage might be beneficial if you’re experiencing symptoms such as persistent swelling, particularly if you have lymphedema, lipedema, untreated edema, or need to manage edema after surgery. Ideally, this treatment should feel gentle and soothing, not painful. If you experience discomfort, redness, or any unusual reaction during or after the treatment, it’s important to stop and speak with a lymphedema therapist or healthcare provider.

Does lymphatic drainage hurt?
No, lymphatic drainage should not hurt or cause redness. This technique is designed to be gentle and soothing, using light pressure to encourage lymph flow without discomfort. If you experience any pain, redness, or unusual reactions during or after the treatment, stop and consult your lymphedema therapist or healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on proper technique and ensure that the treatment is performed in a way that’s safe and effective for you.

Does lymphatic drainage cure lymphedema?
No, lymphatic drainage does not cure lymphedema, as it is a chronic condition that cannot be fully eliminated. However, manual lymphatic drainage is a key component of complete decongestive therapy. This therapy helps manage symptoms, prevent the progression of swelling, and improve overall comfort. Alongside treatments like compression therapy and consistent, low-impact lymphedema exercises, lymphatic drainage plays an important role in controlling symptoms and enhancing quality of life.

Are there any risks associated with lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is generally safe and effective for reducing swelling in affected areas. However, there are some risks to be aware of. If you have conditions such as blood clots, an infection like cellulitis, kidney failure, or a heart condition, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before starting the treatment. These conditions may require special consideration to ensure that lymphatic drainage is safe and appropriate for your health needs.

Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways About Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage is a simple way to encourage lymphatic flow and reduce the swelling that results from lymphedema. Once you’ve learned how to do lymphatic drainage, you can perform your own treatment at home to relieve pain and swelling. However, these shouldn’t replace other lymphedema treatments that your doctor may recommend.

If you need help reducing swelling and pain caused by lymphedema, Tactile Medical can help. At Tactile Medical, we have pneumatic compression devices that offer lower body lymphedema treatment, upper body lymphedema treatment, and head and neck lymphedema treatment. Our Flexitouch Plus system helps stimulate your lymphatic system to promote the flow and drainage of fluid, relieving swelling and pain for people with lymphedema. To find out more about how Tactile Medical can help, check out the Flexitouch Plus system today.