Why Lymphatic Drainage Needs to Be Gentle 

Superficial system: The lymphatic vessels are located just beneath the skin’s surface. Lymphatic drainage techniques, especially methods like the Vodder Method, focus on these superficial vessels. 

Light pressure: The pressure applied during lymphatic drainage is very light, often described as the weight of a nickel or a dime. It’s not anything like deep tissue massage. The goal is to gently stretch the skin to encourage lymph fluid movement, not to manipulate muscles.

Focus on rhythm and direction: The effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage lies in the specific rhythmic and repetitive movements and how they are applied systematically in the direction of lymph flow, rather than deep pressure or quick gyrations of the hands over your body. 

Click here to review our menu of Lymphatic Drainage offerings.

What pain during Lymphatic Drainage might indicate 

If you experience pain during or after a lymphatic drainage session, it could indicate a few things: 

Too much pressure: The therapist might be applying too much pressure, which can be counterproductive and even damage delicate lymphatic vessels.  

Underlying inflammation or injury: If there is significant inflammation, infection, or a recent injury in the area being treated, even gentle touch might be uncomfortable. 

Misunderstanding of the technique: The practitioner might not be properly trained in lymphatic drainage and could be performing a different type of massage. 

Individual sensitivity: While rare, some individuals might have heightened sensitivity to touch. 

Pre-existing conditions: Certain medical conditions might make the area tender. 

Check out this series of videos explaining how Lymphatic Drainage is performed.

Is Lymphatic Drainage painful? Schedule your free consulation 

If you experienced pain during a previous manual lymphatic drainage service, it might be that your therapist was not properly trained. For next time, seek out a qualified therapist! Ensure you are seeing a therapist specifically trained and certified in manual lymphatic drainage. The Certified Vodder Method practitioners at our Wayne NJ Day Spa understand how to best manipulate the body to maximize lymphatic drainage, and this does not involve brusque movements or pressing on or near wounds.

Seek Out Certified Lymphatic Therapists 

Massage therapists at Total Body in Wayne NJ have been certified by the most prestigious institutions in the US and abroad and have thousands of hours of practical experience providing Vodder-style manual lymphatic drainage, recognized as the gold standard in the field. Their diplomas are proudly on display at our Wayne NJ Day Spa.

Therapists who practice lymphatic drainage must have a thorough understanding of the lymphatic system’s anatomy and the direction of lymph flow. In general, this is unlike massage techniques, as massage therapists are trained to massage the muscles toward the heart, because it helps your circulatory system return blood to your heart and lungs. Total Body’s certified MLD practitioners are extremely familiar with these important differences.

There are Contradications for Manual Lymphatic Drainage

To review: is Lymphatic Drainage painful? It shouldn’t be. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle and specialized treatment that can be very beneficial. Please keep in mind that it is not suitable for everyone. There are several contraindications, which are conditions under which MLD should not be performed. Contraindications can be absolute (meaning MLD should never be done) or relative (meaning MLD might be possible under specific circumstances and with medical guidance). We go over these contraindications shortly after your booking with us.