Your lymphatic system helps eliminate your body’s waste. A healthy, active lymphatic system uses the natural movements of smooth muscle tissue to do this. However, surgery or other damage can cause fluids to build up in your lymph system and your lymph nodes, a condition known as lymphedema.
If you’ve ever had a surgery on or involving your lymph nodes, your doctor may have suggested lymphatic drainage massage.
Lymphedema
Procedures that affect or remove your lymph nodes can cause lymphedema as a side effect. Lymphedema will only occur in the area of your body near the surgical site. For example, if you have lymph nodes removed as a part of cancer surgery to your left breast, only your left arm, not your right, might be affected with lymphedema.
Lymphatic massage is a gentle pressure technique used to move the waste fluids from the damaged area. Raakhee Patel, PT, DPT, CLT is a physical therapist and certified lymphedema specialist who trains patients to perform their own lymphatic massage after surgery. Lymphatic massage is one technique used to reduce lymphedema.
“We don’t talk enough about lymphedema,” says Patel. Not only is fluid buildup uncomfortable, causing pain and heaviness in the affected area, but according to Patel, “Stage 3 lymphedema can be devastating,” causing significant depression and lack of mobility that could further complicate healing.