If you’ve ever dealt with that “heavy” feeling in your body—maybe your legs feel swollen after a long day, or you feel foggy and bloated for no obvious reason—you’re not alone. A lot of people in San Jose and Los Gatos are turning to lymphatic therapy as part of their regular wellness routine. But what is it, exactly? And more importantly—does it actually work?
Let’s break it down.
Think of your lymphatic system as your body’s second circulatory system. Instead of blood, it moves lymph fluid, which helps flush out waste, toxins, and excess fluid. It also plays a big role in your immune system—carrying infection-fighting cells throughout the body. The only catch? Unlike your heart, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump. It relies on things like movement, deep breathing, and muscle contractions to keep the flow going.
When the lymphatic system slows down—due to stress, poor sleep, inactivity, or recovery from illness or surgery—you may notice signs like:
This is where lymphatic therapy comes in.
Lymphatic therapy (also called manual lymphatic drainage) is a gentle, hands-on technique that encourages the natural movement of lymph fluid. It’s not a deep tissue massage or spa rubdown. It’s light, rhythmic, and specifically designed to help your lymphatic system work more efficiently.
At InHands Post Operative Recovery, we use medically based techniques, not spa-style massage. All of our sessions are provided by licensed occupational therapists and registered nurses who are certified in lymphatic therapy—because your health deserves more than guesswork.
Here in San Jose and Los Gatos, you’ll find a wide range of options if you search for “lymphatic massage near me.” But not all providers are the same. Lymphatic therapy is deeply connected to your immune and circulatory systems, so it’s important to work with someone who understands your full medical picture—not just how to follow a sequence of strokes.
At InHands, our providers have the clinical background to:
In short, our sessions are not just relaxing—they’re rooted in medical knowledge. And that can make a big difference in your results.
Most people come in wanting to feel better physically—but they often walk out feeling mentally and emotionally lighter, too. Here are a few of the most common reasons our clients book lymphatic therapy:
Whether it’s hormonal, post-travel, or just your body's way of holding on to extra fluid, lymphatic therapy can help you shed that puffiness in a gentle, effective way.
Your lymph system is tied directly to your immune system. Keeping it flowing helps your body filter out bacteria and viruses more efficiently.
Many clients report feeling an energy boost after their session. That’s because when your body isn’t bogged down with stagnant fluid, everything—from digestion to brain function—works better.
People recovering from surgery, illness, or intense physical activity often feel like lymphatic therapy helps speed up the healing process. That’s especially true when inflammation is a concern.
Even though it’s light and subtle, the technique is deeply relaxing. Clients often say they feel calm, clear-headed, and reset after a session.
At InHands, your session will start with a short intake so we understand your goals and medical history. Then you’ll lie down in a quiet, private room while your therapist or nurse performs a series of gentle, wave-like motions designed to move lymph fluid toward drainage points in the body.
Most sessions last about 45–60 minutes. You’ll leave feeling lighter, more relaxed, and often with noticeably reduced swelling.
It’s safe, non-invasive, and many people say they feel the results immediately—especially in areas like the face, legs, and abdomen.
It depends on your body and your goals. Some people come in weekly during a detox or healing period, while others book a session monthly as part of their regular self-care. During your first appointment, your provider can recommend a schedule that fits your needs.
Not at all. While lymphatic therapy is often recommended post-surgery or during recovery, we work with many people who are simply looking to feel better in their day-to-day lives. Whether you’re navigating high stress, supporting digestion, or trying to stay ahead of seasonal illness, lymphatic therapy can be a supportive and preventative tool.
There’s no shortage of wellness services in the Bay Area—but InHands is one of the only practices in San Jose and Los Gatos offering lymphatic therapy exclusively from licensed, medically credentialed providers. We focus on whole-person care, not quick-fix trends. That means personalized treatment, safe techniques, and providers who truly understand the body.
We’re also conveniently located and offer a calm, welcoming environment that feels more like a boutique wellness clinic than a typical medical office.
If you’ve been feeling off lately—sluggish, inflamed, or just not quite yourself—your lymphatic system might be asking for some support. And while there’s no miracle fix for all the things life throws our way, lymphatic therapy is one tool that can help your body feel more balanced, clear, and energized.
We’re proud to support our San Jose and Los Gatos neighbors with care that’s both scientifically grounded and deeply restorative. Whether you’re recovering from something, preventing future issues, or just trying to feel your best—we’re here for it.
Call us or schedule online. We’d love to help you feel better, from the inside out.
