Thermal imaging above shows results of lymphatic drainage after treatment with whole body vibration. Study performed by Total Thermal Imaging La Mesa, CA. The red portions of the thermal imaging show intense congestion, which is relived with vibration therapy.
How to determine the best vibration machine for lymphatic drainage
This article will discuss selecting the ideal vibration machine to improve your lymphatic drainage. A wide variety of vibration platform machines are available, sometimes also called vibration plate exercise machines. Some exercises with loop bands can also help with building muscle. Hopefully, this will help you select the best fitness equipment from the many vibration plate machines available.
First, we’ll explore what the lymphatic system is and how it works. Then we’ll explore how to determine which vibration machine is the best.
What is lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is a process of removing toxins, waste products, and excess fluids from the body through the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in maintaining the body’s immune system and overall health. Whole body vibration machines are a popular tool for promoting lymphatic drainage, as they stimulate the lymphatic system through physical vibrations. In this article, we will discuss the best vibration machines for lymphatic drainage and how they can help improve your health.
The lymphatic system: fluids that circulate without a pump.
Unlike the heart pumping blood, the lymphatic system has no pump and only circulates by movement. The muscle movement pumps lymph through lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes to collect harmful molecules such as viruses and toxins.
Lymphatic vessels only move upward to lymph nodes. These filter the toxins from the nutrients.The clean lymph then re-enters the bloodstream. When lymph nodes are overwhelmed, they can form lumps that can be felt in the groin, neck, and armpits. Body and muscle movements can reduce this swelling by keeping lymph moving and preventing blockage.
Essentially, the only way to circulate lymphatic fluid is to increase movement throughout the entire body.
Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and organs that helps the body fight infections and remove waste products. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body and are usually located in groups.
Lymph nodes act as filters, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances that may be present in the lymphatic fluid. The lymphatic fluid, which is clear and colorless, circulates through the lymphatic system and eventually passes through the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes contain immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, which help to identify and fight infections.
When the body is fighting an infection, the lymph nodes can become swollen and tender. This is because the immune cells in the lymph nodes are actively working to remove harmful substances from the lymphatic fluid. In some cases, lymph nodes may need to be removed or biopsied to diagnose or treat certain medical conditions.
Lymphatic Fluid
Lymphatic fluid, also known as lymph, is a clear, colorless liquid that circulates throughout the lymphatic system. It is derived from the blood plasma and contains white blood cells, proteins, and waste products. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and organs that helps the body fight infections. it also helps remove excess fluids, waste products, and toxins from tissues.
Lymphatic fluid is transported through the lymphatic vessels, which are similar in structure to veins, but smaller in size. The lymphatic vessels are located throughout the body and drain lymphatic fluid from the tissues.
The lymphatic fluid is then transported through lymph nodes. These small sacs act as filters, removing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from the fluid. The lymphatic fluid is eventually returned to the bloodstream through the thoracic duct, which empties into the left subclavian vein.
The lymphatic system plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s immune system and overall health. It helps to identify and remove harmful substances from the body, including bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. The lymphatic system also helps to regulate the body’s fluid balance. It also helps with the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system.
Lymphatic drainage massage: an alternative to exercise
Some people with lymphedema, or who have swollen lymph nodes, have used massage, rather than exercise to improve lymphatic drainage. Although this can be helpful, it is not as effective as improving the body’s natural movements through whole body vibration.
Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized technique used to improve the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. Lymphatic drainage massage using gentle, rhythmic strokes that encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid towards the lymph nodes. The massage focuses on specific areas of the body, such as the neck, armpits, or groin, where lymph nodes are located. The massage helps to improve lymphatic flow, which can in turn enhance the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.
Lymphatic massage typically includes:
- Massage: The massage itself involves using gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the flow of lymphatic fluid. The therapist will typically use light pressure and gentle circular motions to move lymphatic fluid from the limbs towards the lymph nodes. The massage may also include stretching and other techniques to improve lymphatic flow.
- Aftercare: After the massage, the therapist may recommend specific aftercare techniques to further promote lymphatic drainage. This includes drinking plenty of water, avoiding tight clothing, and avoiding sitting for long periods of time.
Overall, lymphatic drainage massage can be a helpful technique for improving lymphatic flow and promoting overall health and well-being. It can be done by a professional, or often by an individual at home.
However, lymphatic massage cannot fully replace actual body muscle movement. Whole body vibration activates 95% of the muscles in the entire body, creating a full-body circulation and lymphatic flow. This vibration therapy is better than massage because it uses the body’s natural muscle movement to ensure full-body lymphatic drainage. Massage alone can primarily target selected areas, but is not the same as a whole body exercise.
What is a vibration machine?
A vibration machine is a device that produces mechanical vibrations to stimulate the body’s muscles, bones, and circulatory system. Vibration machines come in different forms, such as handheld devices, oscillating platforms, and whole-body vibration machines.
Whole-body vibration machines are the most popular type of vibration machine for lymphatic drainage. They provide a full-body workout while promoting lymphatic drainage. The best of these machines allow the user to adjust the speed and the amplitude for maximum flexibility.
How do vibration machines work?
Vibration machines work by producing mechanical vibrations that travel through the body, forcing your muscles to contract. These muscle contractions help by strengthening bones, improving circulation, and providing increased blood flow. The mechanical vibrations also promote lymphatic drainage. They increase the flow of lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic vessels, which helps remove toxins and waste products from the body.
This whole body vibration exercise improves a wide variety of health conditions in addition to lymphatic circulation. They can help improve bone density and blood circulation and oxygen flow. This increased circulation has helped people relieve knee pain, and back pain.
It also helps people find relief from arthritis pain, balance problems, neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, diabetes, and other conditions. The body’s own natural defenses are naturally strengthened without the risks from drugs or other harmful exercises.
How does whole body vibration move lymphatic fluid?
Scientists have found that full body vibration can help both lymphatic and oxygen circulation. This exercise involves standing on a machine that vibrates at high frequencies to move 95% of the muscles at once.
The vibrations move muscles that pump lymph through the body. Ideally, the speed and intensity of this rapid vibration can be easily controlled by the user. This adjustment is important to help avoid pain or dangers of exercises.
More on how the Lifetimevibe vibration plate improves lymphatic drainage is found on our lymphatic research page.
Selecting the best whole body vibration machine for lymphatic drainage
Now that we’ve learned whole body vibration is excellent for lymphatic drainage, how can you select the best? Almost all of these machines are mass produced in China and have no replaceable parts. Most have limited or no warranties, and many are loud, uncomfortable, and even potentially unsafe for people with balance issues.
Also recognize that, as with many products, you often get what you pay for. The best quality machines cost between $4,000 and $20,000. Cheap mass-produced machines will definitely give you a different experience.
Here are five important features to look for:
Amplitude
Amplitude refers to the height of the platform’s movement, or range of motion, which affects the intensity of the vibrations. Many products A machine with a higher amplitude can produce more intense vibrations. Look for a machine with adjustable amplitude, so you can customize the intensity of the vibration to your comfort level.
For example, the LifetimeVibe classic model can adjust amplitude from 0 to 10mm, by the placement of the feet on the platform. This is the greatest range on the market. Lifetimevibe Athletic model adjust from 0 to 14mm!
By contrast, Powerplate, Lifepro Rythm vibration plate, and many others, use extremely low amplitude with a high speed. They often don’t publish the actual amplitude numbers.
Frequency
Frequency refers to vibration speed, or the number of vibrations per second and is measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher frequency vibrations are more intense and can be uncomfortable at extreme speeds, like those found on Powerplate. Look for a machine that allows for easily adjustable frequency settings, that especially can adjust down to 2hz. These slower frequencies are less jarring and painful, and they more closely approximate the body’s natural movements.
Vibration type
Does the machine move straight up and down vertically, like a jumping motion that can be jarring to the spine and head? Powerplate moves this way. Or does it use an oscillating motion, like a see-saw that imitates the body’s natural walking motions? Lifetimevibe uses oscillating vibration.
Safety and comfort
Look for a machine that will be safe for people with balance challenges and prevent falls. Pay attention to the height of the platform and the placement of handles to hold while using the plate. Avoid machines with no vertical column or handles at all. These can be extremely risky for seniors or people at risk of falling.
Durability and Stability
Look for a machine that is built to last and can handle regular use. A vibration plate should be stable and sturdy, with non-slip materials to ensure safety during use. Also consider the weight limit of the machine and whether it can accommodate your weight. The best quality machines are made of steel and wood, with extremely durable finishes and solid components.
Read more about a comprehensive comparison of vibration plates, including Zaaz or T-Zone, Hypervibe, LifePro Waver, and Powerplate.
Conclusion
Whole body vibration machines are an effective tool for promoting lymphatic drainage and improving overall health. They provide a full-body workout to promote lymphatic drainage that is far superior to massage alone. When choosing a vibration machine for lymphatic drainage, consider the machine’s vibration type, amplitude, frequency, safety and comfort. Especially look for a machine that will last be enjoyable to use.