How To Do A Lymphatic Drainage Massage At Home

To perform the reabsorption part of a lymphatic drainage massage, use different methods depending on what part of your body is most affected by lymphatic fluid buildup. Always begin as far away as possible from the affected area. If the lymphedema is by your arm, elbow, or shoulders, begin at the fingertips. If the lymphedema is in your legs, begin at the knee, according to Healthline.

On the arm, remember to always be gentle and use a sweeping motion to move the skin surface from your fingertips to your hands, and then from your hand to your elbow, and finally from your elbow all the way up to your shoulder. 

When trying to reabsorb lymphatic fluid in your legs, place a hand behind each knee and use a pumping motion upwards, repeated 10 to 15 times. Once this is complete, you can attempt pushing up fluid from your lower leg by massaging that area. Place one hand behind your shin and the other hand on top and begin using an upward movement to stretch the skin. Release each patch of skin you stretch and continue with this motion until you reach the ankles. Finally, push on the bottom of your toes to propel lymphatic fluid upward to reabsorb and circulate throughout your lymphatic system.