Words Niamh Leonard-Bedwell. Photographs Stocksy
A clear, yellowish fluid containing infectionfighting white blood cells, lymph plays an important role in removing toxins from our tissues as it flows around our bodies. But sometimes infections, cancer treatments and other health conditions can disrupt this process, causing lymph fluid to build up in certain body parts, such as the arms and legs – and result in swelling in those areas, known as lymphoedema.
To treat the condition, a special massage technique was developed in the 1930s by Danish physicians Emil and Estrid Vodder, called lymphatic drainage. The technique focuses on encouraging the flow of lymph around the body, and reducing the swelling in affected areas.