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Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a specialized hand on technique that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system. This system plays a vital role in maintaining our overall health and well-being by eliminating toxins, waste, and excess fluid from our bodies. 

Here we will learn what Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is, discuss its numerous benefits, and who should consider seeking this specialized hands on technique. 

How Does Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Work

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a gentle, rhythmic manual technique that involves specific hand movements to encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels and nodes that runs parallel to our circulatory system. Its primary function is to help remove toxins, bacteria, viruses, and other waste from our tissues into the bloodstream, where they are then eliminated from the body. 

During a Lymphatic Drainage Therapy session, a trained therapist applies light pressure and rhythmic strokes using their hands or specialized tools. The gentle movements aim to stimulate the lymphatic vessels and encourage the proper flow and drainage of the lymph fluid. This can have a profound effect on our overall health by boosting our immune system, promoting detoxification, and reducing fluid retention. 

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: 

1. Detoxification: 

By stimulating the lymphatic system, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy helps facilitate the removal of toxins and waste products from the body. This can result in improved digestion, reduced water retention, and enhanced overall detoxification. 

2. Boosting the immune system: 

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in our body’s defense mechanism by filtering harmful substances. By enhancing lymphatic flow, this manual technique can strengthen our immune response, making us more resilient to diseases and infections. 

3. Reducing inflammation:

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can effectively reduce swelling and inflammation, making it an excellent therapeutic option for those dealing with conditions such as lymphedema, post-surgery swelling, or chronic pain. 

4. Relaxation and stress relief: 

The gentle strokes and rhythmic movements during Lymphatic Drainage Therapy sessions promote a deep sense of relaxation. This can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote better sleep, leading to an improved overall well-being. 

5. Enhancing skin health: 

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin by providing nutrients and oxygen to the tissues. By improving lymphatic flow, this massage technique can help nourish the skin, reduce puffiness, and improve the complexion. 

Now that we understand the many benefits of lymphatic drainage massage let’s explore who offers this specialized therapy. 

Who Benefits From Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

1. Individuals with Lymphatic Conditions: 

People who have been diagnosed with lymphatic conditions, such as lymphedema or chronic edema, can greatly benefit from Lymphatic Drainage Therapy. It helps reduce swelling, improves lymphatic flow, and promotes better management of these conditions. 

2. Those Recovering from Surgery or Injury: 

For individuals recovering from surgery or injury, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can aid in reducing post-operative swelling, inflammation, and bruising. It supports the body’s natural healing process and may accelerate recovery. 

3. Individuals with Chronic Illness: 

Those who have chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or autoimmune diseases, may find relief through Lymphatic Drainage Therapy. It can help reduce pain, inflammation, and support overall well-being. 

4. Individuals with a Weakened Immune System: 

People with a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment may benefit from Lymphatic Drainage Therapy. It can stimulate lymphatic flow, promote detoxification, bolster the immune response, and improve overall health. 

5. Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: 

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can be beneficial for individuals involved in sport or fitness activities. It aids in muscle recovery, reduces post-workout soreness, improves circulation, and helps prevent injuries by supporting the body’s natural healing processes. 

6. Individuals with Chronic Stress or Anxiety: 

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy offers relaxation and stress reduction benefits. It can help individuals dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders by promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and reducing symptoms associated with stress. 

7. Individuals Seeking Detoxification:

For those interested in detoxifying their bodies, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is an effective option. It promotes lymphatic flow, aids in the elimination of toxins, and supports overall detoxification processes. 

8. Overall Wellness and Self-Care: 

Even if you don’t have a specific condition, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can still offer numerous benefits for overall wellness. It helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, enhance the immune system, and support optimal health.

What’s Next 

From promoting detoxification and immune system support to reducing inflammation and enhancing relaxation, this gentle massage therapy can positively impact our overall health and well-being. It’s important to note that certain medical conditions may require consultation with a healthcare professional before undergoing Lymphatic Drainage Therapy. 

Additionally, it is vital to seek a qualified and experienced therapist who specializes in lymphatic drainage techniques for the best results. To deliver Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (MLD) massage, practitioners typically undergo specialized training to gain a thorough understanding of the lymphatic system and the specific techniques involved.

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic is proud to offer this service. Cheryl C, RMT offers a wide variety of techniques to help improve and maintain your health and functioning. Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is one of the ways Cheryl helps you be your best. If you have a friend or family member who needs this information, please forward this article to them. 

To book an appointment in our office  call 780-455-2112 to get started.

Difference between the Most Popular Massages

So many different massages are now available for us to try.

Although, the main purpose of all of them is to provide the body with deep relaxation, there does exist certain differences among them as well which makes one type of massage more suitable for somebody than the other type.

Traditional massage utilizes different levels of pressures and movements that are applied on the soft tissues. Whereas, now there are different strokes done to provide the body with relaxation. Therefore, it is important for individuals to understand the difference so they can choose a massage that is suitable for them and their needs.

1.     Deep Tissue Massage

This uses slow and deep finger movements applying pressure on the areas where chronic muscle pain is present or where there are contractions. This massage is ideal for those that experience hypertension (sore shoulders and stiff neck). Since it is a deep tissue massage, it uses high levels of pressure.

2.     Swedish Massage

This is the most common and most widely performed massage in the world. It focuses on improving blood circulation and releasing all tensions from the muscles. This massage is best for all those people  who may wish to promote better blood circulation and lower blood pressure levels within their body. It also lessens stress, and improves overall wellbeing.

3.     Sports Massage

This massage is ideal for fitness enthusiasts and athletes as it is more forceful as compared to other massages. This massage is used to warm the muscle tissues, enhance training results, prevent injuries, and promote quick healing in case of any injuries. It can be performed before and after exercising.

Moreover, it is a great treatment for strains, sprains, and tendonitis.

4.     Hot Stone Massage

For this massage therapy, of hot basalt mineral stones or semi precious stones are used so their effect can get to the chakras. The muscle tension is released when the flat, smooth, and hot stones are placed directly on top of the problem area. This massage therapy is also used to align the body energies to achieve a harmony from within.

5.     Aromatherapy Massage

This is a form of Swedish massage with the incorporation of essential oils. They are mostly derived from plant parts or flowers, and they have good scents that have the power to heal.

The two most popular oils used are lavender and rose, as they are known for their relaxation properties. Therapists say that incorporating these oils allow the individuals to feel more uplifted, relaxed, and energized. In addition, it has the ability to fix issues related to insomnia, digestive issues, body pains, and insomnia.

6.     Pregnancy Massage

This massage was designed for pregnant women to reduce their swelling and calm their hyperactive muscles before their scheduled deliveries. In addition, this massage increases their blood circulation, which is very necessary during delivery. The best part about pregnancy massages is that it aids women in both situations; pre as well as post delivery.

Now that you are aware of the basic differences between the popular massage types, make sure you opt for the one that is most suitable for you and your body conditions. Check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca to book your appointment today. 

Determining What Massage You Need

The best way to relax –on any given day- would be by getting a massage from licensed massage therapists as it will promote your body to heal naturally and relieve tensions, tightness, and soreness in your muscles. Although, individuals may think all massages are the same, it is not quite the case.

There are different types of licensed massage therapists as well as different massage types. Therefore, depending on your issues, preferences and needs, you need to pick a suitable massage. Below we have provided you with the common massage options to make it easier for you to determine which one you need.

Deep Tissue Massage (Thai Massage)

This massage is recommended for those that have irritating pain and tightness in their body. This type of massage is done by putting strong and firm pressure directly onto the muscles to release all the tight knots and tensions within your body.

You will need to drink plenty of water after it is done because the intensity of the massage often leaves individuals feeling dehydrated.

Acupressure Massage

The purpose of this massage is to apply pressure onto the pressure points of your body. The theory behind this type of massage is that “healing energies” are released when these pressure points are stressed on.

Since there is pressure being applied to your pressure points, it can feel uncomfortable. This massage will not be suitable for you if you are in search of a spa-like experience. It is ideal for those that want to promote their body’s natural healing ability and release all tension.

Orthopedic Massage

This massage is used as rehabilitation for those who have been injured. It focuses on one area of the body or the injury. This massage is a combination of stretching and massaging the body to promote the ranges of motion and strengthen the body while allowing the body to relieve pain and heal by its self.

Hot Stone Massage

This massage has become a popular option in spas and healthcare offices. It combines the use of pressure and heat so it can provide relaxation to the muscles and promote healing. The hot stones are strategically placed on top of the body so muscles can unwind and relax. When pressure gets added, this massage can be a little uncomfortable.

Swedish Massage

This massage is considered “basic.” The reason is that people opt for this massage because it provides full relaxation. There are multiple essential oils and body lotions lathered onto your body to give you ultimate relaxation. The massage therapists apply pressure in different intensities so if you want it can be extremely relaxing. If you are in search of a proper spa experience, then you should opt for this massage.

When you are looking for a massage, make sure you keep these massages in mind. When you are aware of your massage goals, it will be easier for you to choose a suitable massage.

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has both male and female licensed massage therapists on staff to serve you. Give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to reserve your spot today.