Lymphatic drainage is a delicate form of massage to help increase lymph flow, removing harmful substances from the tissues and increasing immune function. The lymphatic system is located throughout the entire body, with its main superficial lymph node areas at the cervical, axial, and inguinal portions.

Lymph, the fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system, is a transparent, usually slightly yellow, often opalescent, liquid collected from tissues in all parts of the body and returned to the blood. Its cellular component consists mainly of lymphocytes which serve as a defense mechanism by removing bacteria and toxins, and play a major role in antibody formation.

Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system is not closed and has no central pump. Lymph transport, therefore, is slow and sporadic, at approximately five to eight beats per minute. Lymphatic massage therapy increases the transport rate up to 100 beats per minute.

Starting with the abdominal area, special massage techniques are applied over the entire body; client will experience a relaxed and greater sense of wellbeing.

Lymphatic massage therapy is highly recommended pre- and post-surgery, and will ensure easier surgery and recovery while minimizing swelling.

Be well, stay well, Ellen Mills, your local Massage Therapist, will come to you; call for appointment 754-235-6890.