Lymphatic drainage body massage is a very effective, not so much a cosmetic, but a therapeutic procedure. The effect of such a massage is amazing. The technique is relatively young: it was invented in the second half of the 20th century. Initially it was used to get rid of edema in the postoperative period. However, over time, lymphatic drainage massage has become popular in sports medicine and cosmetology. It is used for figure correction, rejuvenation, rehabilitation after injuries and surgeries, and recovery after hard training.
What is lymphatic drainage massage
This is a safe technique for influencing the lymph nodes and the lymph itself in the human body. It is lymph that “transports” all the vital substances in the body: water, amino acids, minerals, metabolic products. Massage allows you to normalize and even speed up lymph flow. The main feature of the technique is that the specialist does not knead the muscles and does not affect the entire selected area of the body. He performs massage movements strictly along the lymph flow lines, activating the movement of fluid in the body. As a result, complex positive changes in appearance and well-being are noticeable: swelling becomes less, cellulite goes away, more energy appears and even mood improves.
General massage
This type of massage is the most common and is performed for the overall health of the body. In particular, the procedure helps achieve such effects as:
- strengthening blood vessels;
- elimination of headaches;
- muscle relaxation;
- normalization of blood circulation;
- restoration of the nervous system;
- improvement of skin condition;
- reduction of fatigue.
To achieve a stable positive effect, it is recommended to complete a full course consisting of 10–15 sessions. As a result, patients note that after a course of general massage their physical and mental performance has clearly increased, and their well-being has improved.
Types of lymphatic drainage massage
The procedure can be performed either by a specialist massage therapist or with the help of devices.
Manual lymphatic drainage massage
It is also called manual. In use since the 1930s. There are several techniques that differ in the intensity of the impact, but the essence is the same: the massage therapist, with smooth rhythmic movements, stimulates increased lymph flow and works out the lymph nodes. In this case, there may be an effect on the muscles, but it is not an end in itself: it is the lymphatic system that is important.
Aromatic oils are often used to maximize patient relaxation. They have a beneficial effect on the emotional state.
Mechanical lymphatic drainage massage and devices used for the procedure
Mechanical massage (aka LPG) is a hardware procedure that is carried out using a special apparatus. The simultaneous effect of vacuum and rollers on the body allows not only to get rid of excess fluid, but also to stimulate muscles and improve microcirculation. Cellular metabolism accelerates, the body becomes toned, and the skin becomes beautiful. Improves well-being and immunity.
The specialist chooses the appropriate massage option depending on the client’s individual characteristics and indications.
How does lymphatic drainage massage differ from the conventional anti-cellulite type?
As we have already said, cellulite is the result of accumulation of lymph in the tissues. A regular anti-cellulite massage relaxes them, helping to improve blood circulation, make scars softer, and increase muscle nutrition. But it does not have such a pronounced effect as lymphatic drainage anti-cellulite massage, which is a whole complex of procedures. It quickly removes excess fluid from cells, enhancing lymph circulation, loosens adipose tissue, while simultaneously cleansing it well of waste and toxins. Both types of massage can be performed in parallel. This will eliminate cellulite, normalize the functions of the circulatory and nervous systems and get the desired result in the shortest possible time.
How does lymph flow work?
The lymphatic system is an ideal natural mechanism that removes and neutralizes waste and waste products of the body, and pumps out excess fluid from it. During various, both acute and chronic diseases, various toxins, viruses and microbes are dumped into it, and during the diet it absorbs the remnants of the breakdown of fat cells. Normally, the lymphatic system pumps out 2 to 4 liters per day of intercellular fluid and waste, cleansing the body.
However, lymph flow slows down as a person ages, and the lymphatic system ceases to cope with its work. Improper nutrition contributes to malfunctions: tissues stop removing fluid in the required volume at the right time, swelling of the legs occurs, puffiness of the face, bags appear under the eyes.
If the lymphatic system does not work well, fluid accumulates in the body, the lymph nodes become overloaded and clogged with toxins and decay products, metabolic processes are disrupted and the immune system suffers: any, even minor, infection can lead to the development of acute diseases or exacerbation of chronic ones.
In order to get rid of problems (or better yet, avoid them), you need to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. How to do it? The answer is simple: pump the lymph with a lymphatic drainage massage of the legs or the whole body.
Why does cellulite appear?
Most often, the cause of “orange peel” is hereditary predisposition and hormonal imbalance, which occurs due to pregnancy, menopause, depression, stress, and taking contraceptive medications.
Cellulite also appears due to an unbalanced diet, pathologies of the endocrine glands, emotional/intellectual overload, rapid weight loss, insufficient fluid intake, and lack of physical activity.
Overall, this is a complex problem. It is impossible to single out any one reason that leads to lipodystrophy. The only thing that all of the listed “sources” of the problem have in common is that they all lead to disruption of metabolic processes and a delay in the removal of fluid from the body.
Some statistics
Signs of cellulite appear in 75% of girls aged 20-35 years and in 95% of women over 40 years old.
In men, lipodystrophy is less common: less than 10% of the stronger sex over 40 years of age are affected. This is due to the fact that their body contains much more collagen, the structure of the muscular system and the thickness of the skin.
Massage areas
Lymphatic drainage massage is performed:
- on the body;
- along the neck;
- hand and foot.
The procedure is also done on the face: in this case, massage is used to get rid of “bags” under the eyes, swelling, strengthen the skin and give clarity to the oval of the face. Normalizing lymph flow allows you to improve the condition of the dermis, get rid of acne and excess pigmentation.
Features of the procedure on different parts of the body
The principle of massage is the same everywhere: a specialist acts on the lymph in the selected area to “disperse” it and remove excess fluid. However, depending on the technique used and the area, the intensity of the movements may vary. So, the face and neck have the weakest impact, while the body, arms and legs have a stronger effect.
When is it better to refuse a massage?
There are no differences in contraindications for both procedures. You will have to refuse lymphatic drainage and anti-cellulite massage if you have:
- Dermatoses and other skin diseases;
- Inflammatory processes of the dermis;
- Burns, wounds, other injuries;
- Pathologies of hematopoiesis and blood circulation;
- Thrombosis or thrombophlebitis;
- Kidney dysfunction;
- Diabetes mellitus;
- Tendency to bleed;
- Neurological diagnosis;
- Neoplasms.
Interesting!
Relative contraindications to anti-cellulite or lymphatic drainage massage are menstrual periods, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How does the procedure work?
The massage is performed on clean skin. The massage therapist's hands move along the lymph flow lines. At first the movements are slow, warming up, then the force of impact gradually increases. The massage ends with patting movements.
Main directions of movement:
- from neck to chest;
- from the stomach and legs towards the pelvis;
- from wrists to shoulders.
In addition, the lymph nodes under the lower jaw, on the side surfaces of the neck, in the armpit area, and along the lines of the elbows are treated.
In order for the massage to be as effective as possible, the specialist spends enough time warming up the area of the body on which the procedure is performed.
Important: you cannot perform such a massage on your own! Safety and effectiveness is ensured by knowledge of human anatomy and the lymphatic system. Our center employs only professionals who are fluent in technology.
What is lymphatic drainage?
The lymphatic system is the main mechanism for removing waste products from cells. It ensures detoxification processes and regulates the functioning of the immune system.
To increase the efficiency of metabolic processes, it is necessary to maintain the lymphatic system in constant movement, because when lymph is retained, swelling occurs and decay products accumulate in the body, poisoning it. The lymphatic system does not have a “motor” like the heart - it is driven by breathing, muscle activity or manual massage.
Effect of the procedure
The speed of lymph movement increases. The muscles that are located around the lymphatic vessels relax. This leads to positive changes:
- weight loss - depending on personal characteristics, patients lose up to 1-2 kg during the course;
- swelling disappears or becomes noticeably smaller;
- the condition of the skin improves - scratches, bruises and acne heal faster, the skin is smoothed, its tone returns;
- the severity of cellulite is reduced, the silhouette is tightened;
- veins become stronger, varicose veins become smaller;
- well-being improves, fatigue goes away;
- mood normalizes.
You feel cheerful, light, full of strength, while your figure and facial condition noticeably improve. To consolidate the effect, it is worth undergoing massage sessions in a course of 7-10 procedures. The frequency is determined by a specialist.
Preparatory procedures
Before performing lymphatic drainage massage, you should cleanse the skin. Peeling or scrubbing would be ideal. Particular attention should be paid to areas with cellulite. After cleansing, dry the skin thoroughly with a towel to prevent injury during the procedure.
It is recommended to refrain from eating 1.5-2 hours before the session. But you need to drink as much as possible.
Interesting!
There is no special preparation for anti-cellulite massage.
Who is this type of massage suitable for?
Lymphatic drainage massage is perfect for anyone who has no contraindications. It can be used as an independent way to correct your figure and get rid of cellulite. Or as one of the components of an integrated approach: this way it will be even easier and more effective to lose extra pounds and centimeters.
Lymphatic drainage is effective for women and men at any age. Taking the course is especially relevant if:
- You constantly feel lethargic and tired, often get sick, suffer from insomnia or regularly face stress. Lymphatic drainage has a beneficial effect on the psycho-emotional state and strengthens the immune system.
- You notice swelling on your body, “bags” have appeared under your eyes. Hands and feet swell even after prolonged sitting or, for example, sleep. This may be evidence of malfunctioning of the lymphatic system.
- You have noticed changes in the structure of your skin: acne or unwanted pigmentation has suddenly appeared.
- You dream of losing weight and tightening your figure, restoring elasticity to your skin.
- You have noticed age-related changes - swelling, loss of elasticity and tone, changes in the oval of the face.
- If you are recovering from an injury or surgery, lymphatic drainage will speed up regeneration and shorten the rehabilitation period.
- You regularly engage in strength sports. Massage is a great way to recover after hard training.
What is the essence and benefits of anti-cellulite massage?
- Essentially, this is a lymphatic drainage massage that increases the activity of the lymphatic system and normalizes its functioning. After a course of procedures, swelling appears less frequently and toxins are eliminated.
- Professional anti-cellulite massage helps to increase skin elasticity and tone without surgical interventions. It has both an aesthetic and health-improving effect, as it stimulates the production of elastin and collagen proteins.
- Already after the first session of anti-cellulite massage, blood flow and cellular metabolism improve, and the capillary system is strengthened. Externally, this manifests itself in figure correction and smoothing out wrinkles.
- Anti-cellulite massage is useful both for those who want to get rid of the “orange peel” and for those whose goal is to prevent its appearance, get rid of fat deposits in problem areas, and improve the condition of the skin.
Indications
- Slowing metabolism;
- Excess weight;
- Edema;
- Cellulite;
- Flabbiness of the skin, loss of tone;
- Slow skin regeneration;
- Severe stretch marks and scars resulting from injuries;
- The initial stage of varicose veins;
- Decreased skin elasticity;
- Drooping (ptosis) of facial tissues;
- Poor psycho-emotional state;
- Lymphostasis;
- Postoperative recovery and rehabilitation after injuries;
- Weak immunity.
Manual facial lymphatic drainage
Facial swelling, especially in the periorbital area, is one of the common complaints of patients when visiting a dermatocosmetologist. The main cause of such conditions is a change in lymphatic and venous outflow.
The orbicularis oculi muscle is responsible for the removal of interstitial fluid, but its work is often insufficient, especially at night, which causes congestion and premature aging of the eye area. Facial lymphatic drainage effectively copes with such problems.
Modern cosmetics produce very strong stimulation of skin cells and, accordingly, the removal of decay products in this area occurs much more actively. Therefore, physiotherapists and dermatocosmetologists of the Telos Beauty Clinic prof. It is recommended to regularly carry out procedures aimed at lymphatic drainage of the face and décolleté to remove decay products.
The lymphatic system of the facial zone is driven only by the muscles, therefore, to maintain the beauty and youth of the skin, it is necessary to maintain constant facial activity or carry out regular lymphatic drainage of the face.
Doctors Telos Beauty prof. carry out lymphatic drainage procedures using manual and hardware techniques, which trigger the mechanism of detoxification and cleansing of the skin at the cellular level. As a result of such manipulations, excess fluid is removed, and with it decay products, which helps to increase the elasticity of the skin, remove swelling and, as a result, correct the oval of the face.
Contraindications
There are few of them, but they exist:
- Oncological diseases;
- Advanced stages of varicose veins;
- Diseases of the arteries of the legs, which can lead to ischemia;
- Skin diseases in the acute stage;
- Benign tumors that increase in size;
- Thrombophlebitis in the acute stage;
- Epilepsy;
- Kidney and heart failure;
- Lymphodenopathy;
- Pregnancy.
If you are unsure whether this type of massage is right for you, let your specialist know about your concerns during your initial consultation. We will determine if the procedure is right for you. If not, we will offer analogues.
Differences from other types of massage
Lymphatic drainage massage is often compared to classic and anti-cellulite massage. But each method differs in the type of impact and intensity of sensations.
Lymphatic drainage massage is performed with soft stroking movements; a specialist (or a device, if you choose a mechanical massage) affects the lymphatic system - the nodes and the direction of fluid flow. In contrast to this technique, anti-cellulite massage is aimed at “breaking” fat cells: the massage therapist acts on the body quite intensely, trying to speed up blood flow and rid fat cells of fluid.
Classic massage is aimed at the muscles. Using traditional techniques, spasmodic muscles and fascia are warmed up, and the natural range of movements is restored. Normalization of blood and lymph flow is also observed, but to a lesser extent.
Advantages over other types of massage
Each type of exposure is good for certain indications and purposes. But lymphatic drainage has several important advantages:
- Painless. While anti-cellulite massage can be unpleasant and even difficult to tolerate for people with a high degree of sensitivity, lymphatic drainage feels comfortable.
- Versatility. The technique is suitable for rejuvenation, losing excess weight, and improving skin condition.
- Combating varicose veins - in the initial stages, lymphatic drainage helps bring the veins in order.
- Strengthening the immune system. Another consequence of lymphatic drainage massage: thanks to the normalization of lymph flow, the immune system is strengthened, mood and well-being become better.
- Different zones of influence. Anti-cellulite massage is done only on the body, but lymphatic drainage can also be performed on the face and neck.
How much does anti-cellulite massage cost in Moscow?
The price of the procedure depends on the area the specialist works with. In our clinic, the cost starts from 900 rubles per procedure. If you pay for 10 procedures at once, we give a 10% discount.
| TYPES OF MASSAGE | Cost, rub. |
| LYMPH DRAINAGE MASSAGE OF LEGS AND BUTTOCKS | 2400* |
| LYMPH DRAINAGE MASSAGE OF LEGS | 1700* |
| GENERAL LYMPH DRAINAGE MASSAGE | 3000* |
| MAIN LYMPH DRAINAGE MASSAGE 45/60 min | 2200/3000* |
| CUP (VACUUM) BACK MASSAGE | 900 |
| CUP (VACUUM) MASSAGE OF LEGS AND BUTTOCKS | 1100 |
| CUP (VACUUM) FOOT MASSAGE | 900 |
| CUP (VACUUM) MASSAGE OF THE BUTTOCKS | 900 |
| CUP (VACUUM) ABDOMINAL MASSAGE | 800 |
| AESTHETIC MASSAGE OF THE BUTTOCKS | 1000 |
| AESTHETIC ABDOMINAL MASSAGE | 1000 |
| AESTHETIC MASSAGE OF LEGS AND BUTTOCKS | 2400* |
Anti-cellulite massage in our clinic is performed by some of the best specialists in Moscow with experience from 14 to 29 years. This ensures that you will see and feel the positive effects of the massage after the first procedures.
How many procedures will it take to see results?
You should not expect immediate changes after the first procedure. Anti-cellulite massage is like training: abs on the stomach do not appear immediately, they require work, discipline and regularity. Same with massage. If you do not miss sessions, then the first obvious result is noticeable after 5-7 sessions. And it becomes one hundred percent noticeable by the 12-15th session.
How often can you do anti-cellulite massage?
This is an individual setting. On average, patients come to us for such procedures 3 times a week. Subcutaneous tissue “restarts” quite slowly and does not like to be rushed. Although in some cases daily procedures are possible.
After examination and consultation, our specialists will select the optimal frequency of sessions based on your clinical picture.
Indications for anti-cellulite massage:
- “orange peel” of any degree of manifestation, of any localization;
- looseness, heterogeneity of tissues in problem areas;
- fat deposits in the buttocks, thighs, legs, abdomen, sides;
- inability to exercise or diet for weight loss;
- varicose veins;
- taking hormonal drugs.
Contraindications:
- pregnancy, breastfeeding period;
- inflammatory processes in the body;
- chronic skin diseases in the acute stage;
- congenital heart disease, angina pectoris;
- oncology, tuberculosis;
- uterine fibroids;
- diseases and pathologies of the mental sphere.
Anti-cellulite massage is also contraindicated during menstruation - it can increase bleeding, make you feel worse and cause pain.
Our clinic employs specialists with extensive experience who are guaranteed to select the most effective type of anti-cellulite massage for you and will clearly explain why they chose this particular technique.
If you want to inexpensively undergo an anti-cellulite massage course in Moscow and be confident in its effectiveness, come to the DolgoLetMed Medical Center for Manual Therapy and Massage. We have been working since 2006, have a medical license and guarantee the safety and effectiveness of the procedures performed by our massage therapists.
You can make an appointment with our specialists by calling the numbers listed on the website or by filling out the feedback form.
