Lymphatic Drainage Massage Dangers and Side Effects

As a massage therapist or esthetician, have you studied the potential lymphatic drainage massage dangers? 

Lymphatic system drainage massage (a.k.a. manual lymphatic drainage or MLD) is a gentle and relaxing technique. By lightly stretching the skin, it’s used to stimulate the lymphatic system, a group of organs, tissues, and vessels that balance bodily fluids and support the immune system. 

What is a lymphatic drainage massage good for? Can lymphatic drainage be dangerous? What contraindications of lymphatic drainage massages should you and your clients be aware of? When should you not do lymphatic drainage massages?

We answer these questions.

What is a lymphatic drainage massage good for? Who benefits from lymphatic drainage massages?

Before exploring possible lymphatic drainage massage dangers and side effects, let’s consider who benefits from lymphatic drainage massages.

Lymph drainage relies on muscle movement. When you exercise, for example, the lymphatic system returns excess fluid back into your bloodstream. This helps the circulatory system transport oxygen and nutrients more efficiently. Additionally, proper lymphatic drainage supports your immune system in catching and eliminating harmful materials like waste products, bacteria, toxins, damaged cells, and even cancer cells. 

If drainage happens naturally, why would people need a lymph nodes drainage massage?

Sometimes the body needs help draining lymph fluid out of the tissues, expert Flavia Lanini said in a Vogue interview. According to the Pain Free Health Clinic, lymphatic system drainage massage may help clients seeking:

• Reduced puffiness or swelling. 
• Detox.
• Strengthened immunity.
• Relaxation.
• Reduced stress.
• Relief from pain associated with inflammation and fluid retention.
• Lymphedema management.
• Improved skin and facial “sculpting” (from better blood flow).
• Recovery from injuries, surgeries, and even cosmetic procedures like liposuction. (How many lymphatic drainage massages after liposuction will depend on your client’s recovery plan.)

Meanwhile, you’ll encounter lots of people who should not do lymphatic drainage massages. That’s why every masseuse and esthetician should know the contraindications of lymphatic drainage massage.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Dangers, Contraindications, and Side Effects

Lymphatic drainage massage dangers can pose a genuine risk to some clients. Some contraindications of lymphatic drainage massage include folks with:

• Congestive heart failure.
• Cardiac edema.
• Renal or kidney disorders.
• Active infections, like cellulitis.
• A history of strokes or clot conditions, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). 
• Fevers.

To avoid treating someone you shouldn’t treat, always collect clients’ medical history first. By getting information on your clients’ health ahead of time, you protect them and your business.

For example, due to the risks of lymphatic drainage massage, clients with DVT should consult their physician before starting this treatment. If you accidentally dislodge a blood clot while performing a lymphatic system drainage massage, it could be life threatening. 

What about pregnant clients? 

Is a lymphatic drainage massage safe during pregnancy?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, expecting mothers can start massage therapy at any point during pregnancy. But consulting a healthcare provider is still a good idea. The Association says pregnant clients with any of the following must have a doctor’s consultation before getting a massage:

• High-risk pregnancies.
• Hypertension.
• Preeclampsia.
• A history of preterm labor.
• Recent bleeding.
• Severe swelling.
• High blood pressure.
• Headaches.

Nonetheless, possible lymphatic drainage massage dangers for at-risk mothers shouldn’t discourage expecting mothers altogether. As part of their prenatal and postpartum treatments, lymph nodes drainage massages are super gentle and offer tons of benefits. 

What to Expect After a Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Your clients may ask: Are there any adverse effects of lymphatic drainage massages? What happens to your body after a lymphatic drainage massage? Does a lymphatic drainage massage make you tired?

Besides the dangers mentioned above, there are rarely any serious lymphatic drainage massage side effects. Indeed, most cons of lymphatic drainage massages are mild, like temporary fatigue, headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms, thirst, and a need to urinate as your body flushes out excess waste.

And don’t just think about lymphatic drainage massage dangers. There are some good side effects, too! Clients report feeling more relaxed and energized, and less bloated. 

To help them prepare, explain the possible lymphatic drainage massage side effects with your clients before and after their treatments. 

What to Do After a Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage dangers aside, giving clients a post-treatment care plan can help them avoid mild after effects of lymphatic drainage massages.

Here’s what to avoid after lymphatic drainage massage, according to plastic and reconstructive surgeon Anthony Dardano:

• Tight clothing. (Loose clothing is better for lymph flow.)
• Alcohol (for 24 hours).
• Caffeine (for 24 hours).
• Heavy, high-sodium diets.

Wondering what to eat after a lymphatic drainage massage? Dardano recommends light, low-sodium options. Also, for best results, drinking water after a lymphatic drainage massage is crucial. And since the lymphatic system relies on movement, walking and other light exercise can help you recover, too, Dardano says.

Peace of Mind Against Lymphatic Drainage Massage Dangers: The WellnessPro Way

Whether you offer massages through formal therapy or your esthetician services, there’s a lot you can do to protect your clients from lymphatic drainage massage dangers.

But unfortunately, you can’t avoid every unhappy or difficult massage client. That’s one of the many reasons why massage therapists need insurance.

Don’t let a potential claim “drain” you and your business. Choose peace of mind with WellnessPro Insurance. Learn about our insurance program for massage and bodywork specialists.