Lymphatic drainage – instructions

Lymphatic drainage has been recognized in medicine for around 40 years and is also covered by most health insurance companies. Here, lymphatic drainage is primarily used to treat lymphedema. This swelling of the tissue is caused by the accumulation of vascular fluid and can be alleviated by careful massage.

Lymphatic drainage areas of application

In general, lymphatic drainage is primarily suitable for complaints that are associated with swelling and congestion, such as sprains,  strains , bruises, broken bones and edema in rheumatic diseases. A   gentle massage of the lymph nodes can also relieve the pain of migraines and other neurovegetative syndromes.

Under no circumstances should lymphatic drainage be used for acute infections, as this allows the bacteria to spread even faster in the body.  Treatment is also not recommended for acute eczema,  asthma ,  cardiac insufficiency , cancer and  thrombosis .

Lymphatic drainage instructions

In general, lymphatic drainage should only be carried out by trained experts. Many beauticians also have training in lymphatic drainage. The course should last at least 80 hours and convey not only theoretical but also practical knowledge. A session usually lasts between 20 and 60 minutes. In contrast to the classic massage, the circulation should not be stimulated here, so it must not be painful. Basically, the lymph drainage is carried out by gentle, circular movements. There are different grips and techniques that are performed evenly and rhythmically:

• Standing circles:  Lay your hands flat on the area of ​​the lymph nodes and use your palms to describe gentle circles in the direction of the draining foot. Repeat the grip several times, using little pressure.
• Turning handle: lay your  thumbs flat, the other four fingers touch the skin with the tips. Now circle slowly in the course of the lymph channels and repeat the channels several times.
• Scoop grip: place  fingers as above, but now circle in the opposite direction of the lymph channels.
• Ultrafiltrate Displacement Handle:  Press fingers together firmly and place palm on edema. Now apply increasing pressure downwards for about 20-30 seconds. This allows the edema fluid to drain away via the bloodstream.
• Windscreen wiper handle:  This technique can provide relief, especially in the case of fibrosis. To do this, place your hands flat next to each other and open and close your wrists like windshield wipers.
• Skin folding grip :  This grip can also help loosen fibrosis. To do this, lift a fold of skin with one hand, then press against it with the thumb of the other hand. Now press your thumb down into the depths.