The lymphatic system relies on intrinsic contractions of the cells that line the walls of the lymph vessels, as well as the contraction and movement of skeletal muscles, to propel lymph through the vessels and to the lymph nodes.  From the these nodes the lymph travels to the lymph ducts, which return the lymph to the cardiovascular system.  Manual lymph drainage uses a small amount of pressure (<9 oz per square inch) and rhythmic movements to stimulate lymph flow. Treatment may also include specific exercises prescribed by your lymphatic therapist, breathing techniques, and compression garments or self-bandaging techniques to further promote lymph drainage after therapy and between treatments.

The benefits of lymphatic therapy are many:

• removal of metabolic wastes, excess water, toxins, bacteria, large protein molecules and foreign substances from the tissues.
• through its gentle rhythmical and precise hand movements, lymphatic therapy works to alleviate pain by greatly reducing then pain signals sent to the brain.
• relaxation of the sympathetic nervous system, thus helping to relieve stress.
• supports and enhances the immune system
• promotes healing from injuries, surgical trauma, chronic conditions, and edema
• minimizes scar formation.