Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage: What You Need to Know

If you’re interested in natural therapies, holistic health, or wellness-focused recovery, you may have heard of or seen lymphatic drainage on your feed lately. And while the technique is undoubtedly becoming popular, it’s more than just a buzzword.

Certain types of movement, such as targeted massage, can help release and drain fluid from the lymphatic system. But what does this mean, exactly? What is the lymphatic system, why does it need draining, and how can massage help the process?

Get answers below, including a rundown of the many benefits of lymphatic drainage massage, like reduced water retention, improved circulation, and better skin health.

What is lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage involves manipulating the skin or muscles through massage or other forms of pressure to release fluid in the lymphatic system and move it to the bloodstream so it can eventually be passed through urine and eliminated by the body.

What is the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system is a group of organs, tissues, and vessels. It’s part of the immune system and vital to the circulatory system. Comprising the lymph nodes, bone marrow, and thymus gland, the lymphatic is involved in:

Removing waste from the body and balancing bodily fluids
Helping the body filter out harmful viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells
Absorbing essential nutrients to promote immunity and overall health
Supporting blood circulation throughout the body

Since the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump (the heart is part of the circulatory system, aka the cardiovascular system), lymph fluid sometimes needs some sort of stimulation to release and circulate. That’s where lymphatic drainage massage comes in.

What is lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a manual method that aims to stimulate the release of lymph fluid. Unlike traditional whole-body and deep-tissue massage, the restorative technique uses light pressure and slow, rhythmic motions in the same direction as fluid naturally flows through lymphatic vessels. This type of massage should never be painful.

Lymphatic drainage can also be stimulated through breathwork and muscle contraction. So physical activity that gets your heart pumping, blood flowing, and muscles activated is another method of helping the lymphatic system drain.

Where does lymphatic fluid go when it drains?

When it’s able to circulate and drain properly, the lymphatic system transports lymph fluid from tissues into lymph nodes, where it can reabsorb into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the waste from lymph fluid is filtered through the kidneys, then passed by the body through urine.

What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?

There are several benefits of lymphatic drainage, which can be stimulated through specific massage techniques. The benefits include:^,^,^,^,

Reducing swelling and water retention – A clogged lymphatic system can result in swollen arms, fingers, legs, ankles, or stomach (bloating). Gentle, targeted massage can release the fluid, helping it drain from the body.
Removing waste and toxins from tissues – By moving excess fluid from tissues, lymphatic drainage massage helps release waste and toxins, encouraging them to return to the bloodstream so they can eventually be eliminated.
Promoting immunity function – A properly circulating lymphatic system can absorb necessary nutrients while getting rid of abnormal cells and harmful germs. This creates an enhanced immune response, helping the body fight off sickness and heal efficiently.
Healthy circulatory function – By promoting healthy circulation, lymphatic drainage massage can help with lymphedema (a buildup of lymph fluid in the limbs). This can help boost metabolism, allowing the body to use energy (burn calories) more efficiently.
Relaxation and stress relief – Lymphatic stimulation can alleviate tension in the nervous system, offering physiological benefits like relaxation and stress relief.
Improved skin tone – Lymph fluid can build up underneath the skin. Gentle massage techniques (with smooth, careful strokes) can help reduce puffiness and promote a more even-toned complexion.

Is lymphatic drainage massage good for you?

Yes, lymphatic drainage massage can be good for you. You might notice relief after just one session, but regularly stimulating the lymphatic system through massage techniques, exercise, stretching, or general movement is ideal for supporting a functioning circulatory system, immunity, and whole-body health.

What happens to your body after a lymphatic drainage massage?

Following a lymphatic drainage massage, you might notice swelling go down in your arms or legs, less puffiness in your face, reduced bloating, or just a relaxed feeling. Some people might have to urinate more than usual the day or so after getting a lymphatic massage.

That said, you’ll get the most benefits over time from regular lymphatic massage and movement that helps release lymph fluid. Also, while the technique can help with lymphedema (which is related to weight retention), it’s not considered a direct approach to weight loss.

How often should you have a lymphatic drainage massage?

It depends on your individual needs and what you’re trying to achieve. But lots of folks find monthly lymphatic drainage massages beneficial. To get the most out of your sessions, stretch regularly (whether on your own or with assisted stretching) and get at least some form of physical activity daily.

Who should get a lymphatic massage?

You might consider getting a lymphatic massage if you:

Are an athlete or frequent exerciser looking to minimize soreness
Live a sedentary lifestyle (with minimal daily movement) and are seeking ways to boost circulation
Want to reduce inflammation or swelling in your body
Often take long plane flights or car rides
Are in the postpartum period and experiencing fluid retention
Recently had surgery or are recovering from an injury or illness (with your medical provider’s approval)
Are exploring new approaches to complement a holistic self-care routine

Check with your healthcare provider to see if they recommend lymphatic drainage massage for your unique needs and wellness goals.

Lymphatic massage for balanced recovery and wellness

Lymphatic drainage massage can be part of a balanced approach to recovery and general well-being. The method complements Stretch*d’s suite of services, particularly assisted stretching. Like lymphatic stimulation, this form of professional-led stretching encourages circulation while alleviating muscle tension.

**Lymphatic stimulation and assisted stretching at Stretch*d**

Combining the benefits of lymphatic stimulation with targeted stretching in a supportive, professional environment can be highly beneficial for your overall health.
If you live in the New York City area and are aiming to boost circulation, keep swelling at bay, minimize inflammation, reduce soreness, support recovery, or be proactive about your wellness, consider booking a stretch massage treatment at a Stretch*d location.

Sources:

Cleveland Clinic. Lymphatic System. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21199-lymphatic-system

National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Anatomy, Lymphatic System. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513247/

Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy. Systematic Review of Efficacy for Manual Lymphatic Drainage Techniques in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: An Evidence-Based Practice Approach. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2755111/

American Massage Therapy Association. Updates in Research: Manual Lymphatic Drainage. https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/research-update-lymph-drainage/

Cleveland Clinic. Lymphatic Drainage Massage. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21768-lymphatic-drainage-massage

National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Lymphatic Drainage. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557720/

Frontiers in Physiology. Lymphatic Vasculature in Energy Homeostasis and Obesity. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6987243/

Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum. The Utility of Lymphatic Massage in Cosmetic Procedures. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10045879/

British Journal of Community Nursing. Manual lymphatic drainage: Exploring the history and evidence base. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/44683866_Manual_lymphatic_drainage_Exploring_the_history_and_evidence_base
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. The use of manual lymphatic drainage on clinical presentation of musculoskeletal injuries: A systematic review. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1744388121001687