Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Lymphatic drainage is great for:
General wellness and immune support
Fluid retention and swelling
Post-surgical recovery (with medical clearance)
Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
Pain reduction in inflammatory conditions
Arthritis and autoimmune conditions
Sports injuries and recovery
Skin health
Stress reduction
Sinus congestion histamine intolerance and allergies
Are you experiencing persistent puffiness, swelling, or feeling sluggish despite getting enough rest? Your lymphatic system might need support. Are you looking for a more natural way to support your body to manage pain and discomfort associated with symptoms or conditions where inflammation is involved?
As a Wembley-based remedial massage therapist with 18 years of experience in lymphatic drainage techniques, I help Perth residents reduce fluid retention, boost immune function, and restore their body's natural detoxification processes through gentle, specialized massage therapy.
What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialised, gentle technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid throughout your body.
Unlike traditional massage that works on muscles, lymphatic drainage uses feather-light, rhythmic strokes to encourage the movement of lymph through your lymphatic vessels.
Understanding Your Lymphatic System
Your lymphatic system is your body's drainage, detox and defence network. This intricate system of vessels, nodes, and organs works alongside your circulatory system to maintain fluid balance, clear cellular waste and inflammatory proteins, transport immune cells to fight infection, and remove toxins from your tissues.
When inflammation occurs in your body, inflammatory proteins and mediators accumulate in the affected tissues. Your lymphatic system is responsible for draining these inflammatory proteins away. When the lymphatic system becomes sluggish or overwhelmed, these proteins and excess fluid build up, perpetuating inflammation and slowing healing. This is why manual lymphatic drainage can be so effective for reducing both swelling and pain associated with inflammatory conditions.
Unlike your cardiovascular system which has the heart to pump blood, your lymphatic system relies on muscle movement, breathing, and manual manipulation to move lymph fluid through your body.
How Dr. Vodder Lymphatic Drainage Works
I use the Dr Vodder method at my Wembley clinic, which is the original and most widely recognised lymphatic drainage technique. This method involves very light, specific movements that follow the natural direction of lymph flow toward your lymph nodes.
Every treatment begins at the neck to clear the cervical lymph nodes - this is crucial as it opens the primary drainage pathways for the rest of your body. From there, the session is tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
The gentle, pumping movements open lymphatic pathways, reduce swelling by clearing inflammatory proteins and excess fluid, stimulate lymph node function, reduce pain associated with inflammation, and support your body's natural detoxification and healing processes. The pressure used is much lighter than traditional massage - about the weight of a small coin on your skin - because lymph vessels are delicate and close to the surface.
Body Systems Affected by Poor Lymphatic Flow
When your lymphatic system isn’t functioning optimally, it affects multiple systems throughout your body:
Immune System
Reduced ability to fight infections, increased susceptibility to illness, slower recovery from colds and flu, and chronic inflammation from accumulation of inflammatory proteins.
Circulatory System
Fluid retention, swelling in extremities, heaviness in legs, reduced circulation, and increased blood pressure.
Pain and Inflammation
Build-up of inflammatory proteins in tissues leading to increased pain, chronic inflammation, delayed healing, persistent swelling and discomfort.
Digestive System
Bloating, sluggish digestion, nutrient absorption issues, feeling of fullness or heaviness after meals.
Integumentary System (Skin)
Dull complexion, puffiness (especially around eyes and face), slower wound healing, increased cellulite appearance, and skin sensitivity.
Nervous System
Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, fatigue despite adequate sleep, and feeling "toxic" or unwell.
Musculoskeletal System
Muscle soreness that lingers longer than expected, joint stiffness, generalised achiness, and reduced flexibility.
Detoxification
Build-up of metabolic waste, feeling sluggish, and increased sensitivity to environmental toxins.
Signs Your Body Needs Lymphatic Drainage
Persistent swelling in hands, feet, ankles, or legs
Puffiness in your face, especially around the eyes
Feeling of heaviness or tightness in limbs
Frequent colds or infections
Chronic fatigue or brain fog
Waking up feeling unrested despite adequate sleep
Slow healing of cuts or bruises
Dull, lacklustre skin or increased cellulite
Chronic pain or stiffness that lingers
Frequent bloating unrelated to meals
If several of these sound familiar, your lymphatic system may benefit from professional treatment.
Conditions Lymphatic Drainage Can Help
Post-Surgical Recovery
Reduces swelling after surgery, clears inflammatory proteins to speed healing, minimises scar tissue formation, reduces post-surgical pain, particularly beneficial after cosmetic procedures or orthopedic surgery.
Fibromyalgia
Helps reduce the widespread pain and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia by clearing inflammatory proteins, improves sleep quality, reduces feeling of toxic overload, supports overall pain management.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Supports energy levels by improving circulation and clearing metabolic waste, reduces inflammatory protein build-up, reduces feeling of being "toxic" or sluggish, helps with brain fog and overall vitality.
Autoimmune Conditions
Supports immune system balance, helps clear inflammatory proteins that accumulate in affected tissues, reduces inflammatory responses, helps manage pain and swelling associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Reduces leg swelling, alleviates heaviness and achiness, supports overall leg health and circulation, reduces associated pain and discomfort.
Sports Injuries and Recovery
Reduces post-exercise inflammation by clearing inflammatory proteins, speeds muscle recovery, helps clear metabolic waste products, reduces pain from sports-related injuries, beneficial for athletes in training.
Sinus Congestion and Allergies
Reduces facial puffiness and sinus pressure, supports drainage of congested sinuses, helpful for chronic sinus issues and seasonal allergies, reduces associated facial pain.
Migraines and Headaches
Can reduce frequency and severity when fluid retention or sinus congestion are contributing factors, deeply calming for tension-related headaches, reduces inflammation that may trigger headaches.
Arthritis Pain
Reduces swelling in affected joints, clears inflammatory proteins from joint tissues, decreases pain and stiffness, improves mobility and comfort.
Skin Conditions
Improves acne, rosacea, and eczema by supporting toxin and inflammatory protein removal, reduces puffiness and dark circles, promotes a healthy, glowing complexion, and minimises cellulite appearance.
Digestive Issues
Helps with bloating and sluggish digestion, supports detoxification processes, reduces feelings of fullness or heaviness, and is beneficial for IBS symptoms.
Chronic Pain Conditions
Reduces pain by clearing inflammatory proteins from tissues, supports healing in chronic pain conditions, decreases tissue inflammation and associated discomfort.
Stress and Anxiety
Deeply relaxing treatment that activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reduces stress hormones, promotes deep relaxation and better sleep, and helps reduce stress-related inflammation.
Pre and Post-Flight
Reduces swelling from long flights, helps prevent deep vein thrombosis, minimises jet lag effects, and reduces travel-related discomfort.
What to Expect During Your Lymphatic Drainage Session
Your First Appointment at My Wembley Clinic
During your initial consultation, we'll discuss your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. I'll explain how lymphatic drainage works and what you can expect during and after the session.
The Treatment Experience
You'll lie comfortably on the massage table, and I'll use the Dr Vodder method’s characteristic, gentle, rhythmic movements. Every treatment begins at the neck to clear the cervical lymph nodes, which are essential for proper drainage throughout your body. The touch is much lighter than traditional massage - many clients are surprised by how gentle yet effective it is.
Sessions typically last 60 minutes and are tailored to your specific needs. For example:
Leg swelling: Treatment focuses on the lower body and relevant drainage pathways
Facial puffiness or sinus issues: Emphasis on face, neck, and upper body
Post-surgical swelling: Concentrated work on the affected area and its drainage routes
General wellness: Balanced treatment based on your specific goals
The treatment is:
Very relaxing and often puts clients into a deeply restful state
Painless and gentle
Suitable for most people, including during pregnancy (after first trimester)
Beneficial even if you don't have obvious swelling
After Your Session
Most people feel deeply relaxed after lymphatic drainage. You may also notice:
Reduced puffiness or swelling
Decreased pain in affected areas
Feeling lighter or less "congested"
Increased urination as your body eliminates excess fluid and inflammatory proteins
Improved energy levels (though some people feel tired initially as toxins are processed)
Better sleep that night
Treatment Frequency
These timeframes serve as a general guide, but can be adjusted according to your body's response to treatment.
General wellness and immune support: Monthly sessions
Active swelling or fluid retention: Weekly for 3-4 weeks, then reduce frequency
Post-surgical recovery: 2-3 sessions per week initially (with medical clearance)
Chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis: Fortnightly to monthly
Sports injuries: 2-3 times weekly during acute phase
Seasonal allergies or sinus issues: Weekly during flare-ups
Self-Care to Support Your Lymphatic System
Between professional lymphatic drainage sessions at my Wembley clinic, these practices help maintain healthy lymph flow:
Stay Hydrated
Your lymphatic system needs adequate water to function properly. Aim for 2 liters daily.
Move Regularly
Muscle contractions help pump lymph fluid. Walking, swimming, yoga, and rebounding (mini trampoline) are particularly beneficial.
Deep Breathing
The movement of your diaphragm during deep breathing helps pump lymph fluid. Practice 5-10 deep breaths several times daily.
Dry Brushing
Using a natural bristle brush, brush your skin in long strokes toward your heart before showering. This stimulates lymph flow.
Reduce Inflammatory Foods
Excess sugar, processed foods, and alcohol can burden your lymphatic system. Focus on whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Elevate When Possible
If you have leg swelling, elevate your legs above heart level for 15-20 minutes daily.
Avoid Tight Clothing
Restrictive clothing can impede lymph flow, particularly around the groin, armpits, and waist.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress affects all body systems, including your lymphatic system. Regular massage, meditation, diaphragmatic breathing or yoga can help.
Why Choose Tracey Cross for Lymphatic Drainage in Wembley?
Specialised Training
I've completed extensive training in lymphatic drainage techniques and understand the delicate nature of the lymphatic system and how to work with it effectively. Please note I am not trained to treat lymphedema.
18 Years of Experience
Nearly two decades of practice means I've worked with a wide range of conditions, from post-surgical swelling to chronic fatigue.
Gentle, Personalised Approach
Every lymphatic drainage session is tailored to your specific needs, whether you're seeking general wellness support or addressing a specific condition.
Comprehensive Understanding
I understand how the lymphatic system interacts with other body systems and can address multiple concerns in one treatment.
Convenient Wembley Location
My clinic at 26 Salvado Road is easily accessible, located opposite the Bunnings Home Base in Subiaco, serving Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, Glendalough, Floreat, and surrounding Perth suburbs.
Comfortable, Professional Environment
My Wembley clinic provides a comfortable, professional space where you can relax and allow your lymphatic system to respond to treatment.
Is Lymphatic Drainage Right for You?
Lymphatic drainage massage is beneficial for most people, but there are some situations where it should be avoided or modified.
Consult your doctor before lymphatic drainage if you have:
Active infection or fever
Congestive heart failure
Blood clots or history of DVT
Kidney problems
Active cancer (unless cleared by your oncologist)
Untreated thyroid conditions
If you're unsure whether lymphatic drainage is appropriate for your situation, I'm happy to discuss your specific circumstances during a consultation.
Book Your Lymphatic Drainage Session in Wembley
Whether you're looking to reduce swelling, support your immune system, enhance your skin health, assist in your healing journey with complex conditions, or simply give your body's natural detoxification systems a boost, lymphatic drainage massage can help.
With 18 years of experience providing lymphatic drainage therapy in my clinic, I understand how to work with your body's delicate lymphatic system to achieve optimal results.
Ready to experience the benefits of lymphatic drainage?
Clinic Location: 26 Salvado Road, Wembley, WA 6014.
Located opposite Bunnings Home Base in Subiaco - easy to find with convenient parking.
Serving: Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, Glendalough, Floreat, Jolimont, City Beach, and surrounding Perth suburbs
Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphatic Drainage
Does lymphatic drainage hurt?
No, lymphatic drainage is one of the gentlest massage techniques. The pressure is very light - much lighter than traditional massage. Most people find it deeply relaxing.
How is it different from regular massage?
Traditional massage works on muscles using firm pressure. Lymphatic drainage uses very light, rhythmic movements specifically designed to stimulate lymph flow through delicate lymphatic vessels just below the skin surface.
Will I feel immediate results?
Many people notice reduced puffiness, decreased pain, and feeling lighter immediately or within 12 hours after treatment. Other benefits, like improved immune function and energy levels, develop over several sessions as your lymphatic system becomes more efficient at clearing inflammatory proteins and metabolic waste.
How often should I have lymphatic drainage?
This depends on your goals. For general wellness, monthly sessions are beneficial. For fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue, fortnightly sessions often provide the best ongoing support. For specific issues like post-surgical swelling, more frequent sessions (2-3 times weekly) may be recommended initially.
Can I have lymphatic drainage while pregnant?
Lymphatic drainage can be beneficial during pregnancy, particularly for swelling. However, if your pregnancy has complications it is best to discuss with your doctor whether lymphatic drainage is appropriate for you.
What should I do after a session?
Drink plenty of water to support your body's elimination of the mobilised fluids and toxins. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours. Light activity like walking is beneficial, but avoid intense exercise immediately after treatment.
How long does a session take?
Sessions typically last 60 minutes, beginning with work on the neck to clear the cervical lymph nodes, then tailored to your specific needs and treatment goals.
Will I need to undress?
You'll undress to your comfort level and are professionally draped with sheets throughout the treatment, with only the area being worked on exposed.