is it normal to bruise after a lymphatic massage?!

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You're calling it a 'lymphatic massage'. There is actually a mode of massage called 'lymphatic drainage' - and this is a VERY gentle massage technique.

What you have described sounds more like a therapeutic massage involving deep tissue techniques. It is quite possible to have tender spots for a day or two after such a massage - but bruising suggests that an awful lot of pressure was used - certainly more than I ever use in deep tissue work (I have been a remedial/therapeutic masseur for almost 20 years).

Even when using deep tissue techniques, a masseur should give you information as to what to expect before he/she starts, keep you informed along the way, and advise you that there may be some residual tenderness for a couple of days. It might be a good idea to ring the masseur and talk to him/her.

Whether or not damage has been done, I can't say - I would suggest that, after two days, it should be starting to feel better. Certainly, if it's getting worse, you need to have it checked out.

I am a Naturopath and Remedial/Therapeutic Masseur