Myths & Home Treatments for Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage is a specialised massage therapy technique designed to support the body’s natural fluid movement. Using slow, gentle strokes in specific directions, it helps reduce fluid build-up, relieve swelling, and promote overall wellbeing.

How Lymphatic Drainage Works

Swelling can overload your lymphatic system, making it harder for fluid to flow freely. Because the system relies on muscle movement to function, lymphatic drainage mimics this action, helping move fluid through the body more efficiently and restoring balance.

Conditions That May Benefit from Lymphatic Drainage:

• Lymphedema
• Symptoms from post-lymph node removal
• Gout
• Swelling from diabetes
• Sprains
• Neural swelling
• Post-operation on swelling
• Bakers cyst

Common Myths - Debunked

MYTH 1: It needs to be sore to be helping.

Despite its gentle nature, lymphatic drainage simulates muscle movement on the skin, where most of our lymphatic channels are located.

If firm pressure is applied during this treatment, the lymph ducts will become blocked as we push the lymph through. As a result, there will be a back flow of fluid, which will not produce the desired results.

MYTH 2: Lymphatic drainage works when you feel sick from it.

Too much fluid movement in your system all at once can result in feeling nauseous, however this is an uncommon side effect of the treatment and not an indication of its success.

Your lymphatic system is an important part of your immune system. Bacteria and viruses may get caught in lymph nodes when your body fights them off.

MYTH 3: The treatment will remove all toxins in my body.

The body is able to remove toxins naturally thanks to the lymphatic system, liver, kidneys and spleen, as well as maintain a specific temperature and PH level. All these systems work together to process toxins, waste products, bacteria and viruses.

Lymphatic drainage is not a treatment for removing toxins from the body. It is, rather, a treatment that assists the lymphatic system in performing its natural function of processing toxins and waste products.

At-Home Lymphatic Stimulation

To give your lymph system a boost at home:

• Elevate your feet above your heart

• Try these simple movements:

1. Twist the upper body while lifting one hip at a time

2. Lift and lower each leg using your hips

3. Bend and straighten your knees

4. Flex your ankles

5. Scrunch your toes

6. Repeat in reverse order

Want to Try Lymphatic Drainage with a Professional?

Our trained Massage Therapists at Healthy Connections are here to help you feel lighter, reduce swelling, and support your body’s natural balance.

You can book a session at our Chermside clinic or through our mobile massage service available in North Brisbane and Moreton Bay.

Book your appointment today and experience the benefits of lymphatic drainage with expert care.