Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymph fluid moves through vessels, nodes and organs throughout the body, carrying immune system components along with waste, water and proteins. Lymph nodes filter this fluid before it enters the veins on its way to the heart. Surgery, injury, illness, genetic conditions or other medical issues can sometimes block or disrupt this flow, a condition known as lymphedema.

Lymphatic drainage massage helps guide fluid back toward the lymph nodes, work that matters because this system plays a central role in immune regulation. Massage therapists trained in this technique can support clients experiencing symptoms such as:

• Swelling in the arms, hands, legs or feet
• Pain or a feeling of heaviness
• Swelling around the shoulder, breast, groin or face
• Clothing that fits tighter due to swelling
• Skin discoloration
• Recurring infections
• Weakness

There are four primary techniques used in lymphatic drainage massage, all focused on the skin rather than deep muscle, using light, moderate movement. Therapists typically begin near the torso and work outward, clearing space in one area before guiding fluid through for proper reabsorption. The main techniques include:

• Vodder: Spiral or circular motions repeated over the affected area
• Foldi: Circular strokes paired with brief pauses for relaxation
• Casley-Smith: Circular strokes combined with breathing, using the sides and palms of the hands
• Leduc: An advanced technique that collects and sweeps lymph fluid away

Note: this type of massage isn’t recommended for clients with heart conditions, a history of blood clots, an active infection or kidney failure.