Can I overdo lymphatic massage?

"Lymphatic drainage massage" can indeed wreak havoc on the body if overdone. The lymphatic vessels and system can only process a certain amount of fluid before symptoms arise, leading to serious issues with crucial organs, such as the lungs and brain. A 60-minute session with an experienced professional is too long, and likewise, the DIY tasks should not exceed 20 minutes. Understanding the limits can help you avoid a world of trouble.

Vessel collapse. While 9 oz/in2 is generally enough to pop the vessel and open the interstitial spaces, excessive pressure will block the pathway instead. The lymphatics have been severely crushed and damaged by the rolling, allowing them to leak protein into the surrounding tissues. I've had several patients who've taken months to get over just one too-eager session.

Recognize the signs to STOP: nausea means you're fluid is overwhelming your kidneys. Headaches mean your cerebral fluid is imbalanced. If you're noticeably more swollen, your hands techniques have backfired so STOP. Recover for 72 hours and rest and be symptom free before starting again!

Implement safety measures to recover from accidental overuse. Rest entirely for 24 hours with your legs elevated. Drink electrolyte solutions and not plain water. Weigh yourself and monitor if you are producing more urine than normal, especially in usable medicated tonic drinks. Seek medical attention if you have any of the above symptoms for over 12 hours. Prevention is by far the safest way to avoid complications.

Read the full article: Lymphatic Drainage Methods: Complete Guide