Venues offering Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage (manual lymphatic drainage) is a massage technique that stretches the skin towards the lymph nodes with very light, slow, rhythmic movements. Its aim is not to knead the muscles but to support the flow of fluid in the lymph vessels beneath the skin. This is why its pressure is noticeably lighter than in classic massages.

How is lymphatic drainage massage done?

Lymphatic drainage massage is based on the technique developed by the Danish couple Emil and Estrid Vodder, which is why it is also known as the Vodder method. The client usually lies on their back. The therapist first works around the neck and collarbone, then the areas where lymph nodes are concentrated, such as the armpits and groin; the arms and legs come last. The movements are circular, pumping and scooping strokes made with the palms and fingers; each stroke gently stretches the skin and then releases it. Because the skin must not slide, either no oil is used or only very little.

The treatment can cover the whole body or just a single area such as the legs, abdomen or face. On spa menus the same name may also be used for a treatment with a pressure-boot device known as pressotherapy; the manual technique and the device treatment are different services.

Duration and session plan

A full-body lymphatic drainage session usually lasts 45-60 minutes; sessions focusing on a single area come down to 20-30 minutes. Because the movements are slow and repetitive, it is normal to fall asleep during the session. The lightness felt after the session, however, is temporary. For this reason, venues may recommend a series repeated at set intervals rather than a single session; the number and frequency of sessions should be decided together with the therapist according to what you expect.

Who is it for, and who should avoid it?

Lymphatic drainage massage is chosen by people who stand or sit for long periods, those whose legs feel heavy after travelling and those who do not like firm pressure. The light, repetitive movements may help you relax and may reduce the feeling of temporary swelling. The treatment does not flush out toxins, does not make you lose weight and does not permanently change the appearance of cellulite.

In the following cases lymphatic drainage is not given, or a doctor's approval is needed first:

• Suspected thrombosis: if one leg shows sudden swelling, pain, warmth and redness, see a doctor instead of having a massage.
• Heart failure, kidney failure and uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Illness with fever and active skin infection
• Ongoing cancer treatment and diagnosed lymphoedema
• Pregnancy and recent surgery

How it differs from similar massages

Lymphatic drainage massage is most often confused with treatments aimed at cellulite. Anti-cellulite massage and maderotherapy use firm, fast pressure on the hips and legs and can cause redness or bruising; lymphatic drainage, by contrast, is light enough to leave no mark on the skin. Swedish massage kneads the muscles with gliding, oiled strokes and aims at general relaxation; in lymphatic drainage there is no kneading, and only the surface of the skin is worked. If you are simply looking for a more familiar option for tiredness in the feet and calves, foot and leg massage is also worth considering.

Questions to ask before your appointment

When making an appointment for lymphatic drainage massage, asking these questions makes it easier to tell whether the session matches what you expect:

• Is the treatment done by hand, or is a pressotherapy device used?
• Has the therapist had separate training in manual lymphatic drainage?
• Is the session full-body or a single area, and how many minutes does it last?
• If a series is recommended, is the price set per session or as a package? For a general picture, see what determines massage and spa prices.
• How will you tell them about your health and any medicines you take before the session?