Explain the importance of pressure, direction, rhythm, and sequence when applying lymphatic facilitation techniques

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: In applying lymphatic drainage massage techniques, it is important to use light pressure (i.e., only enough to create traction to move the skin). Too much pressure closes off the overflaps of the initial lymphatics and prevents lymph fluid from entering them. The movement is performed in the direction of the targeted lymph node. The rhythm of application includes an active phase in which skin is moved in the desired direction, then a passive phase when the skin snaps back to its original position. This is repeated with an even rhythm six to eight times in each spot to create a pressure wave. Finally, the sequence is determined by the body's lymph drainage pathways so that fluid moves in the direction of the left and right thoracic ducts and is returned to the cardiovascular system.