If you are struggling with chronic fatigue, depression, foggy thinking, muscle weakness, and appetite changes, you should get checked out for adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal insufficiency is a condition that affects your adrenal glands, which are the small organs that sit on top of your kidneys and release hormones like epinephrine. When a person becomes overly stressed for a long period of time, these glands can become stressed as well, and you may experience hormone fluctuations. One way to improve symptoms of adrenal insufficiency is by getting a lymphatic drainage massage. Read on to learn more about the lymphatic system, how it's affected by adrenal insufficiency, and how massage therapy could help.

What Is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is a part of your immune system and is made up of lymph fluid, lymph nodes, and the spleen. It has many functions, such as helping you absorb certain fats, removing cellular waste, and protecting your body from illness.

How Does Adrenal Insufficiency Affect the Lymphatic System?

If you are suffering from adrenal insufficiency, then you may have excess cortisol levels. Cortisol can affect the lymphatic system by causing inflammation and by suppressing the immune function and circulation of antibodies. This decreased functioning of the lymphatic system could increase your feelings of fatigue.

What Is Lymphatic Massage?

Lymphatic massage, or lymphatic drainage massage, is a little bit different than other massages. While a sports massage or Swedish massage might focus on tight fascia and muscle tissue, lymphatic massage focuses on pathways of lymph flow. For example, people have a lot of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, around the clavicles, and by the hip flexors, so your therapist might focus on those areas. Instead of using deep pressure, lymphatic massage incorporates light pressure and long rhythmic strokes to improve the circulation of sluggish lymph fluid.

How Can Lymphatic Massage Help Adrenal Insufficiency?

By improving the flow, you may feel less run-down and stressed, so you may be better able to handle the demands of adrenal insufficiency. One study focused on the effects of lymphatic massage for women going through menopause and found that the relaxation effect of this technique could help relieve psychological stress (a contributor to adrenal insufficiency). The study also showed that lymph drainage can decrease cortisol levels, which can be a contributing factor to adrenal insufficiency. Lastly, because lymphatic massage can improve immune function, you may be better able to fend off illnesses and meet the demands of stressors in your life.

Reach out to a massage therapist in your area to learn more about lymphatic massage and other massage modalities that may help your symptoms.