Manual lymphatic drainage is one of the best techniques to stimulate from the dermis the lymphatic system, it is based on massages that favor the elimination of toxins and strengthen the immune system. In addition, it is a method used by professionals or even at home to avoid some common problems such as the formation of varicose veins or cellulite.
This technique has a lot of difference compared to other massage, as it carries a slower and penetrating rhythm. It seeks to mimic the normal functioning of the circulatory system and improve its function, in case of fluid retention in tissues.
For this reason, when noticing the swollen or tired body, usually in areas of the legs this massage is a great option, especially if you want to avoid the formation of varicose veins.
What are varicose veins?
Dilation of the superficial veins, often in the lower limbs, is called by this name. Its sole cause has not been identified so far, some causes lie in family history, pregnancies, tendency to stand for prolonged times, etc.
The lymphatic system is responsible for purifying and cleaning the circulatory system, eliminating waste and excess fluid. In addition, it helps nutrients and other fluids from the body to return to the bloodstream after being purified.
Benefits of manual lymphatic drainage to prevent varicose veins
The best solution to avoid the formation of varicose veins that can lead to great risks and even in extreme cases amputation in diabetic people is to stimulate the circulation of the lymphatic system. For this you can apply a manual lymphatic drainage DLM, in the hands of a professional or perform a self-massaging at home.
It should be noted that this drainage meets other health-related benefits:
- Decrease cellulite.
- Reduce swelling of the legs.
- Remove excess fluid.
- Prevent wrinkles.
- Regulate and stimulate lymph circulation.
How to do a manual lymphatic drainage at home?
To avoid the formation of edemas and varicose veins, a self-massage is fundamental and very simple to perform, consists of gentle and rhythmic massages following the direction of the flow of the lymphatic system. These movements seek to stretch the walls of the vessels and drain the lymph into the veins by redirecting it away from the clogged areas.
A homemade DLM can last approximately 25 minutes and can be repeated 3 times a week.
If you have poor circulation, you can make use of sweet almond oil or rosemary oil to facilitate massage. It should always be started from the bottom up; the purpose is to carry the lymph to the groin, where several lymph nodes are found.
The main thing to keep in mind is to avoid pushing the varicose veins. The following explains the procedure more precisely:
- In a sitting position on a chair or on the floor, it starts with gentle pressures at the tip of the fingers making use of both hands.
- The thumb rests on the foot and the rest of the fingers rest on the sole, exerting a slight pressure, always in the direction of the heel.
- Then it goes up without letting go in the direction of the calf. Slight pressure is exerted on the ankles, performing circular massages with both hands.
- It continues to rise without releasing, when reaching the knee, pressure must be exerted on the inside with the help of the thumbs, following circular movements.
- Finally you will reach the area of the thighs and reach the groin, where you will make use of the open palms, with massages of circular shape and more energetic.
- At the end of the lymphatic massage on one leg, the same procedure should be performed on the other.
Once the massage on both legs is finished, it is advisable to lift the legs and leave them in this position for a few minutes or until you can. This helps the lymph flow well.
This series is for a lymphatic drainage of the legs, if it is required to treat any specific problem can be performed in some corresponding area. There are a number of movements to stimulate the general lymphatic drainage of the body, in areas such as the face, neck, arms, abdomen, buttocks and dorsal area.
How long can the results of manual lymphatic drainage are noticed?
After the first sessions some improvement should be noticed, this is shown in the affected area, as it should deflate by decreasing fluid retention or improving circulation. This can vary depending on whether the technique is properly applied, whether it is a massage at home or whether it is applied by a professional.
Contraindications of manual lymphatic drainage
This therapy may have certain contraindications such as:
- Thrombosis.
- Bronchial asthma.
- Carotid sinus syndrome.
It is important to take into consideration the technique and avoid overdoing it in the sessions due to its delicacy. To achieve better results and avoid the formation of varicose veins, it may be advisable to start with a specialist who can start with lymphatic massage sessions or can instruct you.
