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There's a lot of misunderstanding surrounding lymphatic drainage, often perpetuated by TikTok influencers and misleading social media posts. It’s unfortunate that many people are misled about this important treatment. So, when someone asks me if I can perform lymphatic drainage, my first question is always, “Why do you want that treatment?” Let’s clarify who needs lymphatic drainage, what it entails, and why it can be beneficial.

It's crucial to understand that every massage you receive includes some element of lymphatic drainage. When any muscle in your body moves or generates energy, it also produces waste. Typically, this waste travels through capillaries and is eliminated via the bloodstream and kidneys. However, when muscle activity is high, capillaries can become bogged down, causing waste to be processed by the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump; it relies on the movement of your body to function effectively. If you lead a static lifestyle or if a muscle group is particularly thick, waste can accumulate in the muscles, leading to dysfunction. For example, I frequently see clients with lower back pain where the glute muscles have stopped firing due to waste buildup. When this happens, surrounding muscles must compensate, leading to additional strain on the lower back.

During a massage, part of the process involves pushing muscle waste into the lymphatic system, allowing fresh blood and oxygen to enter the muscles. This often helps the muscles resume their normal function. The waste is then processed by your lymph nodes.

While deep tissue or therapeutic massage applies firm pressure to facilitate the movement of waste, lymphatic drainage massage is a different process altogether. Most lymphatic massages are performed on individuals with medical conditions. For example, a bed-bound patient may experience waste buildup in their muscles, leading to puffiness or edema in the surrounding tissue. If you’ve ever visited a relative in a nursing home, you might have noticed that their legs appear swollen, and gentle pressure leaves an impression on their skin.

Lymphatic Massage Techniques:

• Gentle Touch: Lymphatic drainage massage is characterized by very light strokes, often described as "feather strokes." These gentle movements are directed toward the lymph nodes, located under the arms and in the groin.
• No Lotion: Typically, this type of massage is performed without lotion to avoid any discomfort.
• Sensitivity Required: In cases such as post-surgical recovery (e.g., after liposuction), the tissue can be extremely sensitive, requiring the practitioner to use the lightest touch possible.

Understanding the nuances of lymphatic drainage is essential for anyone considering this treatment. While every massage promotes some degree of lymphatic drainage, true lymphatic massage is a specialized technique primarily used for individuals with specific medical needs.

If you have questions about whether lymphatic drainage is right for you or how it can benefit your situation, please consult with a qualified therapist. 

Leah Alden MT, MMT   Dec 4, 2025