What lymphatic drainage massage is
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage with slow, light, rhythmic movements made in the direction of lymph flow. The pressure is much lighter than in a classic massage: the hand glides over the skin without strong kneading. The lymphatic system helps the body balance fluids in the tissues, and the massage follows the direction of lymph flow. A medical form of this technique is used for lymphoedema under a doctor's supervision; at BodyBar it is a wellbeing treatment.
At BodyBar Studio in Botanica, a session lasts 50 min and costs 500 lei.
Who it is for
- people who spend many hours on their feet or at a desk and feel heavy, tired legs in the evening;
- anyone looking for a very gentle massage with a clearly relaxing effect;
- anyone who wants to add to a body care programme, for example alongside anti-cellulite massage or RF lifting;
- anyone who wants a calm treatment after a busy period or a long journey.
What to expect from the treatment
After the session, many clients describe a feeling of lightness in the legs and arms and a general sense of calm; this feeling is temporary. Research on lymphatic drainage massage is mostly about medically treated lymphoedema, and there is little evidence of other benefits in healthy people. It is a care and relaxation treatment: it is not a medical treatment and does not treat swelling caused by illness. The effect differs from person to person and we cannot guarantee a specific result.
Contraindications
Talk to your doctor before booking, and tell your therapist, if any of the following applies to you. In several of these cases lymphatic drainage is not done at all:
- fever, acute infections, inflammation;
- thrombosis, thrombophlebitis or a suspected blood clot;
- heart disease or heart failure, kidney failure or severe liver disease;
- cancer, current or past, without the approval of your treating doctor;
- swelling that appeared suddenly, on one side of the body only or for no known reason: see a doctor first;
- skin conditions, wounds or infections in the area to be massaged;
- pregnancy: only with the approval of the doctor following your pregnancy.
Duration, number of sessions and price
A session lasts 50 min and costs 500 lei. You can come for a single relaxation session or for a series; salons typically suggest 5–10 sessions, once or twice a week, which is a common industry figure rather than a fixed rule. The exact plan is agreed with your therapist at the first visit.
How the session goes
Your therapist starts with a few questions about your health and the areas you want worked on: legs, arms, abdomen or the whole body. She then works with slow, very light movements at a steady pace, in a quiet room. There is no discomfort to put up with: the massage should feel pleasant and calm from start to finish.
After the session
Drink water during the day and give yourself a few quiet minutes before going back to your schedule. A light walk is welcome. Avoid very intense exercise and hot baths on the same day. If you notice new swelling, pain or any unusual reaction, tell us and ask your doctor for advice.
Where to find us
BodyBar Studio is in the Botanica district of Chișinău, at Bulevardul Decebal 99C, Botanica, Chișinău. Hours: Mon–Fri 09:00–20:00, Sat 10:00–18:00, Sun closed. Online booking preselects this treatment.
Massage and body treatments do not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Tell your therapist about any health condition, medication or implant before the session.