Why Assisted Lymphatic Therapy Is Crucial For Cancer Patients
25 years ago when I went through massage school, lymphatic massage was an optional class to take in order to help those with swelling (lymphedema). We never learned techniques, or were even taught about the lymphatic system in school. Back then, it was not seen as an important system in the body and was extremely overlooked by the medical community. What people do not know is that doctors are not taught about the lymphatic system in medical school. Most do not have any knowledge about this most vital system unless they educate themselves. Unfortunately, due to this lack of education, most cancer patients have suffered through not receiving one of the most vital treatments for cancer, lymphatic drainage.
It has been thought in the medical community that lymphatic drainage spreads cancer. It has also been believed that if cancer is found in the lymph nodes that this is a major red flag and they need to be removed, or the cancer will spread. I am here to tell you, this could not be farther from the truth. If this were in fact the case, just merely moving and exercising would spread cancer as this is what really moves the lymph throughout the body. Breathing moves the lymph, moving your arm, lying down, literally any movement moves the lymph. Cancer found in lymph nodes is a sign the lymph is doing its job, by removing toxic invaders out of the body so it can heal. Is your mind blown yet???
So why should cancer patients be receiving lymphatic drainage massage, or the specialized form of lymphatic drainage that I offer in my clinic assisted lymphatic therapy?
Cancer treatment isn’t just about targeting tumors-it’s about creating an internal environment where cancer cannot thrive. One of the most overlooked systems in cancer care is the lymphatic system, and yet, it plays a vital role in immune defense, detoxification, and cellular repair. Assisted Lymphatic Therapy (ALT) is a gentle, non-invasive modality that helps restore and optimize this critical system. One session of ALT is equal to 8-10 manual lymphatic drainage sessions.
The Role of the Lymphatic System in Cancer Defense:
The lymphatic system is the body’s internal drainage and filtration network. It removes toxins, cellular waste, pathogens, and abnormal cells-including cancer cells. It also transports immune cells like lymphocytes and natural killer cells to where they’re needed most.
When the lymphatic system becomes sluggish or congested-often due to inflammation, inactivity, surgery, or toxic load —this drainage slows. As a result, toxins accumulate, immune function declines, and the body becomes more vulnerable to chronic disease, including cancer progression.
How ALT Supports Cancer Patients
Assisted Lymphatic Therapy uses gentle vibrational, electrostatic, and light frequencies to break up stagnant lymph fluid and stimulate natural lymph flow and drainage. This approach supports cancer patients in several critical ways:
• Enhances Detoxification: ALT helps the body efficiently remove metabolic waste, environmental toxins, and chemotherapy residues, reducing the burden on the liver and kidneys.
• Strengthens Immune Function: By increasing lymph flow and mobilizing immune cells, ALT helps the body identify and destroy abnormal or cancerous cells more effectively.
• Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation creates a terrain where cancer can grow. ALT calms inflammatory responses by clearing inflammatory mediators from tissues.
• Eases Edema and Lymphedema: ALT can provide significant relief for those experiencing post-surgical or
treatment-related swelling by promoting fluid movement and reducing pressure on surrounding tissues.
• Improves Energy and Wellbeing: Many patients report better sleep, increased energy, and improved mood-outcomes that support resilience during cancer treatment.
A Healthy Lymphatic System = A Strong Immune System
You cannot separate lymphatic health from immune health. Nearly 80% of immune cells reside in lymphatic tissues. If the lymphatic system is stagnant, immune surveillance is compromised-giving cancer cells an opportunity to grow unchecked. By restoring lymphatic flow, ALT empowers the immune system to do what it was designed to do: detect, respond to, and eliminate threats.
In summary: ALT is a powerful complement to cancer care because it addresses the terrain-not just the tumor. It supports the body's natural healing mechanisms, strengthens immune defense, and enhances quality of life, making it an essential part of a holistic cancer treatment strategy.
I like to combine energy work or Craniosacral to support the nervous system and help ease the body into healing. Addressing the trauma and emotions that surround cancer and a cancer diagnosis is just as important!
