Lymphatic massage "Effective at clearing inflammation"

Lymphatic massage

 Lymphatic massage can improve immunity over time

Lymphatic drainage is a simple and delicate procedure that can positively impact the immune system over time. Lymphatic drainage typically requires expert knowledge and training, while the steps themselves involve only a very light massage, according to a report published in Newsweek.

Sorelle Pindar, a former osteopath in the UK, said the lymphatic system is located within the body's connective tissue, also known as fascia, and acts as a drainage network for waste that the veins cannot handle, such as bacteria, lactic acid, and toxins.

Noticeable Improvement

Pindar explained that fascia can harden under pressure or illness, reducing circulation and making it difficult to eliminate waste. She added that "inflammatory diseases, muscular problems, and prolonged stress can also cause fascia to harden." Pindar noted that those with chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID often notice significant improvement, based on her experience.

"Effective at clearing inflammation"

"The lymphatic system is like the body's 'waste collection system,'" lymphatic drainage expert Kathy Fleming told Newsweek. She described the technique as "one of the most effective ways to remove inflammatory material from tissues."

Orthopedic physician Joshua Lenchus, MD, explained that the body moves between 2.5 and 3 liters of lymph fluid daily, aided by muscle movement and tissue compression. He said that encouraging this movement can aid recovery by helping eliminate toxins and infectious agents.

Important Warning

"It should not be used in the presence of cancer," warns Dr. Robert Goldberg, clinical professor of medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, as the technique could theoretically encourage the spread of malignant cells. He adds, "Lymphatic drainage is not recommended for cases of acute, active infection or venous thromboembolism (blood clots)."

While lymphatic drainage is usually gentle, it can carry risks if performed incorrectly. Moving waste too quickly through the device can overwork the body and worsen symptoms before they improve.

Bindar warns against performing the massage too quickly or vigorously, likening it to emptying a trash can that hasn't been cleaned in months. The sudden movement can release a flood of toxins into the body and leave the person extremely fatigued.

Side Effects: Headache and Nausea

According to Lenchus, side effects include headache, nausea, fatigue, or increased urination and bowel movements—signs that the body is eliminating waste. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours.

Lenchus and Goldberg recommend consulting a physician before beginning treatment, especially for those with chronic or complex health conditions.

Massage above the collarbone and around the navel

While there are several ways to perform lymphatic drainage, Dr. Lenchus said, "The process generally involves massaging or lightly tapping several areas, including the area above the collarbone, just below the earlobes, the armpits, around the navel, along the groin crease, and behind the knees."

He added that all of these procedures must be done at one time, and sessions can be performed from a few times a week to every few months. It should be noted that lymphatic drainage is not listed as a treatment for any condition. Rather, it works best as part of a broader individual health plan that includes nutrition, sleep, stress management, and medical supervision.

Evidence regarding the benefits of lymphatic drainage for immune system function is mostly anecdotal or from limited studies, so more rigorous scientific trials are needed to determine the treatment's effectiveness.