You may have heard more about lymphatic drainage massage recently. It has become increasingly popular, but what does it actually involve, and how do you know whether it could help you?
At Martinvale Clinic, we believe understanding your treatment is just as important as the treatment itself. Our physiotherapist Katie Starling offers lymphatic drainage massage, with a personal approach that starts with your symptoms, your health and what you hope to achieve.
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
Your lymphatic system helps collect excess fluid from your tissues and return it to your bloodstream. It also forms part of your immune system.
When this drainage is disrupted, fluid can collect in the tissues and cause swelling. Lymphatic drainage massage uses gentle, rhythmic skin movements to encourage this fluid towards areas where it can drain more effectively. The specialised technique is often called manual lymphatic drainage, or MLD.
A gentle approach
If you are used to sports massage or deep tissue treatment, lymphatic drainage massage may feel quite different.
The movements are light, slow and carefully directed. Rather than working deeply into tight muscles, the treatment gently moves the skin to support lymphatic drainage. It should feel comfortable, and firm pressure is not needed for the technique to work.
Who might benefit?
Lymphatic drainage massage may help some people with swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid.
For people with lymphoedema, it can be one part of a broader care plan that also includes movement, skin care and, where appropriate, compression garments. The aim is to help manage swelling and its symptoms, rather than offer a one-off cure.
If you have noticed swelling, puffiness or a feeling of heaviness, it is important to understand what is causing it before choosing a treatment. There are several possible reasons for swelling, and massage will not be the right approach for everyone.
Following surgery, suitability and timing should be discussed with your surgical team. Diagnosed lymphoedema or swelling following cancer treatment may require care from a specialist lymphoedema service and a practitioner with the relevant additional training.
What can it realistically do?
With so much information online, it can be difficult to separate useful advice from promises of instant results.
At Martinvale, we focus on what is appropriate for you. We would not promise weight loss, a “detox” or permanent changes to your body shape from lymphatic drainage massage.
Instead, we start by looking at your symptoms and discussing whether treatment could help, what you can reasonably expect and whether any other advice or care is needed.
What happens at your appointment?
Your appointment with Katie begins with a conversation. She will ask about your symptoms, medical history, any recent surgery and what has prompted you to seek treatment.
You will have time to ask questions and discuss your concerns. If lymphatic drainage massage is suitable, Katie will explain the approach and make sure you are comfortable throughout.
As a physiotherapist, Katie can also consider how your symptoms affect your movement and daily activities. Where appropriate, your care may include advice about gentle movement and ways to support your comfort between appointments.
When might massage not be appropriate?
A gentle treatment still needs to be the right treatment for your circumstances.
An active infection, a suspected or confirmed blood clot, and certain heart conditions can make lymphatic drainage massage unsuitable. If you have cancer or are receiving cancer treatment, advice from your medical team or lymphoedema specialist may be needed first.
New, unexplained or worsening swelling should be medically assessed before massage. Sudden swelling in one leg, especially with pain, redness or warmth, needs urgent medical advice. If you also have chest pain or breathlessness, call 999.
Please tell us about any medical conditions or recent changes in your health when enquiring, so we can guide you towards the right care.
Not sure whether it is right for you?
You do not need to know exactly which treatment you need before contacting us.
At Martinvale, we believe healthcare should be personal. Whether you are interested in lymphatic drainage massage or simply want advice about where to start, we are happy to help before you book.
Contact Martinvale Clinic to ask about lymphatic drainage massage with Katie Starling.
Martinvale Clinic – helping you move better, feel better and stay active.
