Lymphatic Drainage

Question 1

Positive Reactions to Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 1

• Sleep Improves
• Energy Increases
• Memory increases
• Senses become more acute
• Joints may spontaneously adjust (tension release)
• Increases feeling of wellness
• Emotional release

Question 2

Negative Reactions to Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 2

• May be lightheaded
• Sluggish
• Nausea
• Muscle aches
• May become sick
• Emotional release
• Kick back

Question 3

Physiological responses to Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 3

• Extreme thirst
• Urine with strong smell and darker color
• Increased urination
• Release of toxins can cause a short term acute fever

Question 4

Pressure of Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 4

• Extremely Light (face)
• Light (clavicles, axilla, deep abdomen, popliteals)

Question 5

Number of Strokes per Location

Answer 5

• 3 to 5 for lymph vessels
• 5 to 7 at nodes

Question 6

Common Mistakes During Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 6

• Too much pressure
• Working too fast
• Rigid hands
• Not activating the stretch receptors
• Not ending a stroke with zero pressure
• Not working retrograde, then rinsing
• Not moving the lymph in the correct direction
• Not working the neck before the body

Question 7

Speed of Strokes

Answer 7

1 to 4 seconds

Question 8

Contraindications of Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 8

• Infections
• Fever
• Thrombosis
• Phlebitis (venous inflammation)
• Recent heart conditions
• Hemorrhage
• Urinary/kidney system dysfunction
• Malignant cancer
• During chemotherapy/radiation treatments

Question 9

Local Contraindications of Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 9

• Thyroid Dysfunction
• Allergies and Asthma (wait 2 to 3 days post episode)
• Burns
• Bruises
• Eczema
• Moles w/o prior approval
• Abdominal surgery
• Menstruation, vaginal infections, IUDs (avoid abdominal work)
• Pregnancy (avoid 1st trimester)
• Contact lenses
• Extended release medications
• Orthostatic hypotension

Question 10

Special Instruction Before Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 10

• Drink plenty of water or natural juices for 2 to 3 days before session
• Don’t wear make up to session
• No clothing that indents skin
• Plan a face session lasting 30 to 40 min and a body session lasting 75 to 90 min
• Avoid processed and fatty foods the day of the session

Question 11

Purpose of Light Pressure During Lymphatic Drainage

Answer 11

Stimulate stretch receptors of the skin, which in turn opens the lymph vessels. If the touch is too heavy, the vessels of the superficial lymphatic system will be compressed, preventing the free flow of lymph.