Is lymphatic drainage dangerous? Is it normal to feel tired after a lymphatic drainage massage? We answer all your questions about this miracle massage! While lymphatic drainage helps to detoxify the body deeply, it's not always suitable for everyone. Before you begin, it's important to know the contraindications and possible side effects.
What is the purpose of lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is a type of massage that helps circulate lymph throughout the body to eliminate toxins. This technique uses gentle movements (light pressure, circular motions, and rhythmic strokes) performed on the entire body. Legs, abdomen, arms, back, face—everything is included! These movements help the lymph reintegrate into the bloodstream, preventing it from stagnating in the tissues. The massage promotes the flow of lymph towards the lymph nodes. This type of massage can be performed at a spa or as a self-massage. directly from your home!
When the lymphatic system is overloaded, it can no longer eliminate toxins normally. This can lead to symptoms such as swollen legs or water retention.
Lymphatic drainage offers numerous benefits :
- stimulates the lymph;
- activates the elimination of waste and toxins;
- promotes cell regeneration (it's an excellent anti-wrinkle treatment!);
- boosts the immune system by helping antibodies circulate more effectively;
- improves hormonal balance;
- relieves varicose veins and edema;
- It relaxes the nervous system and decongests the muscles.
What are the side effects after lymphatic drainage?
Rest assured, lymphatic drainage is not dangerous to your health. Quite the opposite! If it is performed by a professional who has mastered the technique and asks you all the necessary questions beforehand, there is nothing to worry about.
Lymphatic drainage massage has few side effects. However, some people may experience:
- Muscle soreness : this may occur a few hours after lymphatic drainage, especially after the first massage. It disappears over the course of the sessions.
- Pain : Depending on individual tolerance levels, some pain may occur when there are subdermal adhesions. However, this is very rare, as the movements in this type of massage are very gentle.
- Fatigue : It's perfectly normal to feel tired after a lymphatic drainage massage. This is due to the elimination of toxins accumulated in the body.
- You may feel chills during or after the lymphatic drainage treatment. This is simply your body reacting!
- An urge to urinate : a fairly common side effect as fluids begin to circulate properly in the body again.
These side effects vary greatly from person to person. In most cases, you'll primarily experience all the positive effects of the massage: lighter legs, less bloating, firmer skin, a feeling of relaxation… Pure bliss!
To minimize the risk of muscle soreness, simply remember to hydrate well after your lymphatic drainage massage. This will also help your body eliminate the released toxins more effectively.
Are there any contraindications to lymphatic drainage?
Unfortunately, not everyone can benefit from lymphatic drainage. Certain medical conditions are incompatible with this type of massage. There are, however, two types of contraindications:
Unfortunately, not everyone can benefit from lymphatic drainage. Certain medical conditions are incompatible with this type of massage. There are, however, two types of contraindications:
Absolute contraindications: lymphatic drainage massage is prohibited.
If you suffer from any of these conditions, lymphatic drainage should be strictly avoided:
- acute tuberculosis
- acute toxoplasmosis
- progressive malignant diseases (cancer or AIDS),
- Heart failure and decompression, cardiac edema
- superior vena cava syndrome,
- severe renal insufficiency,
- thrombosis, phlebitis and other vascular accidents,
- nevus,
- organ transplant,
- haemophilia,
- infectious condition (fever, pneumonia, abscess, active mastitis, etc.), open wounds.
Relative contraindications:
This requires a doctor's opinion, which will be given or withheld on a case-by-case basis. Lymphatic drainage can then be adapted, for example, by avoiding massaging certain areas.
Lymphatic drainage is not recommended in the following cases:
- hypotension (risk of dizziness after lymphatic drainage),
- hyperthyroidism (massage can be performed outside the neck area),
- bronchial asthma or emphysema (drainage massage often permitted except on the chest),
- liver damage
- severe depression.
If the doctor gives you the go-ahead, lymphatic massage may be considered.
Is lymphatic drainage suitable for pregnant women?
Absolutely! From the third month of pregnancy until delivery, lymphatic drainage can be performed on pregnant women (unless medically contraindicated). It is even beneficial for helping expectant mothers relieve heavy legs and combat water retention. Indeed, the lymphatic system works even harder during pregnancy to eliminate toxins from the body and provide all the necessary nutrients to the baby.
In this case, the practitioner will ensure that their technique is adapted to the woman's state of pregnancy and that pressure on the abdomen is limited.
Is it safe to have lymphatic drainage massage during menstruation?
Lymphatic drainage is not recommended during menstruation. Excessive pressure on the abdomen could increase menstrual flow. However, you can certainly perform lymphatic drainage yourself by massaging only your legs or face, for example! Dry brushing is also a good alternative.
The must-have accessory for your bathroom: the Atelier Nubio x Andrée Jardin massage brush. It refines skin texture while stimulating blood and lymphatic circulation. You won't be able to live without it! A step you absolutely must incorporate into your beauty routine.
How to replace lymphatic drainage?
If you have contraindications that prevent you from enjoying a lymphatic massage, know that there are plenty of alternatives to take care of your lymph naturally.
Engage in regular physical activity
Unlike the heart, the lymphatic system does not have a pump. Lymph circulation results from body movements (breathing and muscle contractions). When body movements or physical activity increase, lymph circulates more rapidly. Prolonged immobility therefore slows lymph drainage.
To activate lymphatic circulation, remember to move regularly: cycling, walking, swimming, water aerobics… All these activities are ideal for gently taking care of your lymph. Trampolining is also excellent! The bouncing helps open the lymphatic valves and promotes circulation. 15 to 20 minutes a day is enough for a healthy lymphatic system!
Adopt a healthy diet
Colorful vegetables, vegetable fats and oilseeds rich in omega-3, sprouted seeds, good quality proteins (plant or animal), few processed foods… This is the secret to a balanced diet that contributes to the proper functioning of the lymphatic system.
Remember to add greens to your plate: spinach, zucchini, broccoli, parsley, leeks, etc. All these vegetables are known to purify the blood and lymphatic system. And above all, limit your consumption of processed and ready-made meals. They are often too salty, and we know that salt retains fluids and overloads the lymphatic system.
At the same time, remember to drink plenty of water. Lymph is about 95% water. Without sufficient water intake, lymphatic fluid cannot flow properly. In fact, one of the common causes of lymphatic congestion is dehydration.
Enjoy the benefits of plants
Many plants are renowned for their draining and detoxifying properties. Red vine, witch hazel, blackcurrant, horse chestnut… They promote lymphatic flow and the elimination of toxins. To enjoy their benefits, find them in our two favorite lymphatic supplements:
- We want the draining elixir : benefit from a 3-in-1 action to drain the body, sculpt your silhouette and improve your circulation.
- We want pretty legs : with this elixir of selected plants to activate blood circulation, say goodbye to heavy and swollen legs!
