Lymphatic massage has been used by medical and alternative practitioners to treat edema and injuries for many years. Lymph is a fluid that flows throughout the body as part of the immune system; it drains into the blood stream. Some claim to use lymphatic massage to bolster the immune system, improve skin quality or increase the energy level. Basically, proponents of lymphatic massage claim that it can stimulate lymph movement through the body and eliminate lymph congestion. You should check with your physician prior to having a lymphatic massage, as it is often contraindicated for patients with tumors, blood clots or heart problems. This therapy should not be used in place of a physician's care. There are many books available that discuss and describe lymphatic massage.
"Foundations of Manual Lymph Drainage"
This 2004 book was written by Michael Foeldi, M.D., who runs a lymphology clinic, and co-authored by Roman Strossenreuther. It covers lymphatic massage from a technical standpoint, describing the lymphatic system, the formation of lymph and common problems with lymphatic drainage. Massage techniques are explored via photographs and diagrams. Complete decongestive therapy is also explained. This book is appropriate for massage therapists and others who wish to perform lymphatic massage on healthy participants.
"The Touch That Heals: The Art of Lymphatic Massage"
"The Touch That Heals: The Art of Lymphatic Massage" was written by William N. Brown, Ph.D., a practitioner of lymphatic massage. This book with photos explains how to perform this technique and also explores its historical roots. This guide covers such diverse topics as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), cleansing recipes and herbs. Published in 2008, it promises to explain "advanced lymphatic protocols," something new in the field of lymphatic massage.
"Milady's Guide to Lymph Drainage Massage"
For people wishing to learn more about the benefits of lymphatic massage for healthy participants, "Milady's Guide to Lymph Drainage Massage" is a consideration. This book was written by Ramona Moody, a long-time practitioner. Published in 2003, this book gives step-by-step instructions of how to perform a lymphatic massage on yourself or others. Photographs are included for each step. Cellulite treatments are explained as well as the theory behind lymphatic massage. The lymphatic system itself is also discussed in this how-to guide.
"Textbook of Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage"
"Textbook of Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage" was written by Guenther Wittlinger and Hildegard Wittlinger, a lymphatic drainage massage instructor and clinic director, respectively. This book, published in 2003, describes how to perform lymphatic massage by using the hand and thumb in light pumping motions to stimulate lymphatic circulation. It claims that the technique is appropriate for use after breast cancer surgery and abdominal surgery. The material is provided as coursework, similar to taking a college-level class in the procedure.
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