What really works for lymphatic drainage?
Compression bandages and garments Compression bandages or garments, such as sleeves, gloves, stockings or tights, fitted over affected limbs act as a counterforce to muscles. This stimulates more effective lymph drainage. The combination of exercise and compression encourages the fluid to move out of the affected limb. One of the greatest things you can do to keep your lymphatic system healthy is exercise,” says Pyle. It helps the lymph fluid move through your system. Deep breathing exercises. Moving the diaphragm muscle through deep breathing also helps fluids circulate, she says.Breathing slowly and deeply can help move fluid through the lymph vessels and nodes. Place both hands on your belly and focus on expanding your belly as you inhale and contracting your belly as you exhale. Physical activity. Exercise helps move fluid throughout the body.Exercise. While blood is pumped by the heart, lymph fluid is squeezed through the vessels during physical activity. One of the greatest things you can do to keep your lymphatic system healthy is exercise,” says Pyle. It helps the lymph fluid move through your system.Stay hydrated by drinking half your weight in ounces of water a day. Without adequate water, lymphatic fluid cannot flow properly. And one of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Only water, can adequately rehydrate the body, but if you want to expedite the process, add lemon to your water.
How do I know if lymphatic drainage is working?
If it’s working, you should start to get relief from your symptoms of lymphedema in time. Your swelling should go down. You’ll feel less heavy or tight. It will be easier to move, too. Physical activity encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and Tai chi all might help to encourage the lymph to move. Pelvic floor exercises may also help. These target and strengthen the muscles in your pelvis.When your lymphatic system doesn’t work well, your body accumulates fluid and may begin to swell. The swelling typically affects your arms and legs, but it can affect other areas of your body, too. Lymphedema also increases your risk of developing an infection where you have the condition.Exercise. Regular physical exercise is a great way to get your lymphatic system pumping and detoxing your system of waste. Jumping, walking, stretching, yoga, Pilates, and other moderate exercises done on a daily basis will really improve the state of your lymph.Drink Plenty of Water Drinking plenty of water can help manage lymphedema symptoms by promoting the body’s filtration and elimination functions. Being dehydrated causes your body to hold onto excess liquid, so staying hydrated supports your lymphatic system health.
Are there devices to help lymphatic drainage?
LymphaTouch is a versatile and effective medical device that provides relief for various health problems and promotes the body’s own healing process. The negative pressure and mechanical high-frequency vibration produced by the device activate the circulation of lymph fluid and soft tissue in the treated area. This is done by stimulating contractions of lymphatic vessels. Use a light pressure and keep your hands soft and relaxed. Use just enough pressure to gently stretch the skin as far as it naturally goes and then release the pressure. Let your skin come back as it was.