What is Lymphatic Drainage?

It is a specialized therapy, which is designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. This is primarily achieved through gentle, rhythmical circling movements of the skin, which stimulate the contractions of the lymphatic vessels. Techniques are performed with hands and fingers using a light-touch, which is simulating, gentle, through a wave-like movement. The subtle manual maneuvers activate lymph and interstitial fluid circulation as well as stimulate the functioning of the immune and parasympathetic nervous systems. A well functioning lymph system contributes to healthy body tissue and plays an important part in the body's immune system responses. 

In a nutshell having a Lymphatic Drainage can be compared to using a plunger on a slow or stopped up drain. If there is a clog in a drain, the water may go through the drain but it may not be draining to it’s full draining capacity, if at all. But after using a plunger the drain, drains to it’s full capacity.

What is the Importance of Lymph Drainage for good health?The predominant fluid in your body is lymphatic fluid. This fluid carries nutrients from the food you eat and oxygen from the air you breathe. It also carries toxic poisons, bacteria, cholesterol and viruses away from the cells in your body. Our lymphatic system is primarily responsible for carrying disease-fighting material to cells. When the lymphatic system is blocked, we become defenseless against attacks by virus, fungi, and bacteria.Many immune processes occur in the lymph nodes. If the pathways become congested, blocked, damaged or severed, then fluids can build up in the connective tissue leading to edema and swelling. This can lead to abnormalities in the cells and tissues. If there are any abnormalities in the tissues, then it is the role of the lymphatic system to transport the damaged cells, inflammatory products and toxins away from the area. The quicker this happens, the faster recovery will be. This is where Lymphatic Drainage can make a difference, the gentle technique enhances and stimulates the lymphatic system to drain stagnant fluids, detoxify, regenerate tissues, filter out toxins and foreign substances. Lymphatic Drainage is recommended for both the face and body.

Some Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

¨ Detoxification of the entire body

¨ Relief of chronic pain

¨ Minimizes lines and wrinkles

¨ Restores hydration of the skin and Stimulates the overall skin

¨ Promotes the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains, and lessens pain.

¨ Reduction in fluid retention and edemas (swelling) of various origins

¨ Helps with post-cancer treatments including Radiation therapy

¨ Regeneration of tissue, including burns and wounds

¨ Enhances body contouring and reduces cellulite

¨ Reduces swollen ankles and legs during pregnancy.

¨ Aids in stress reduction by causing deep relaxation

¨ Aids in the reduction of insomnia

¨ Relieves congestion, for those who suffer sinus and allergies

¨ Helps with some forms of constipation

¨ Reduces puffy eyes and “bags” under the eyes

¨ Before and after facial surgery (including cosmetic surgery)

¨ Builds and strengthen collagen fibers and increases tone and enhance facial contouring

¨ Rids the face or body of excess fluids and/or toxins

Brought to you be Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, 142 Erickson Dr. Red Deer 403-347-3261 www.family1stchiro.ca