In simplest terms, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes and organs that work as part of the immune system to carry lymph fluid that is rich in infection-fighting white blood cells throughout the body, while also helping rid the body of waste and excess fluid. In addition to the nodes and vessels, the tonsils, thymus, and spleen are all part of the lymphatic system.

Lymphedema can develop when the lymphatic system (closely related to the circulatory system) is malformed during fetal development (primary type), or when the lymphatic system is damaged by other conditions such as poor circulation, trauma, stroke & more (secondary type).

Proper preparation will ensure greater results afterward. We advise that you make a checklist to help keep track of the details.
1. Make sure your therapist has the proper certifications: For the best lymphatic drainage massage results, the best therapist would be required. During your consultation, ask your therapist about his/her experience. You could as well request to see some before and after photos of the patients he/she has treated.
2. Be prepared mentally, physically, and psychologically: Lymphatic drainage massage techniques require you to be calm and relaxed. Let go of all thoughts and be in the moment with your therapist.
3. Avoid consumption of heavy meals beforehand: Lymphatic drainage massage can be very intense depending on your treatment. When you eat heavy meals before then, you may experience a lot of discomfort. This will interfere with the smooth progress of the therapy.
4. Do not apply any form of body lotion: Another requirement for a smooth lymphatic drainage massage procedure is not to apply any oils or lotions for effective MLD techniques.
5. Relieve your bladder before treatment: Lymphatic drainage massage treatments encourage the effective, smooth flow of body fluids. During treatment, more fluid will find its way to the bladder. We advise starting with an empty bladder to avoid creating pressure.
6. Follow your therapist’s instructions: After your session, your therapist will provide some instructions to follow. These will help make the treatment successful. Examples of these instructions include ensuring that you drink extra fluids to keep the body flushed as frequently as possible, and engaging in some light exercises such as walking, and jogging to keep the muscles active, and your lymphatic system working.

Lymphedema is an accumulation of fluid in the area between the cells of the body that causes swelling, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and occasionally in other parts of the body such as the head, neck or genitals. According to the Mayo Clinic, edema is the body’s general response to injury or inflammation and is the result of fluid from “leaky” blood vessels being released into nearby tissues. This fluid accumulates and causes the tissue to swell. Lymphedema is a condition that is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to the lymph nodes, often as the result of cancer treatment or infection. Swelling occurs when lymphatic-rich or protein-rich fluid is unable to drain properly. Lymphedema can occur in the extremities, trunk, as well as in the face.

The first symptom people usually describe is a feeling of tightness or heaviness, or a difference in the way their jewelry or clothes are fitting. Some people, too, will experience changes in range of motion, or decreased flexibility in their joints.  Aching or discomfort and recurring infections can also be signs of edema and lymphedema, as well as hardening or thickening of the skin. The swelling can be mild and hardly noticeable, or it can cause changes that make it difficult to use the limb. lymphedema, particularly when caused by cancer treatment, may not occur until months—or sometimes even years—after treatment.

Thanks to the stimulation of kidney function your urine could become darker and smelly for one or two days. Then, as MLD removes toxins through the urine, it’s normal that your urination frequency increases for a few hours after the massage. In addition, swelling and inflammation will decrease. Last but not least, you will experience total body relaxation and a feeling of general well-being. Note, however, you might feel tired and heavy after the drainage as your body is trying to get rid of the toxins.