Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a very gentle, subtle, repetitive form of massage based on pumping and scooping movements, which encourage lymph to flow more freely around the body. This renews, nourishes, strengthens and regenerates the cells, removes waste products and relaxes the nervous system.
The History
Dr. Emil Vodder developed Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in the 1930s.He noticed that people who are suffering from chronic catarrh and sinus infections tend to have swollen lymph nodes (glands) and against medical practice of the time, started to work upon these lymph nodes with great success. He described this as MLD. Since Vodder’s pioneering work, MLD has spread worldwide and has become a popular treatment in many European hospitals and clinics.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system and is designed to assist in the removal of waste products from the cells of the body. Unlike the circulation of the blood, there is no pump (the heart); instead the lymphatic system has to rely on muscular movement to assist circulation. This system can become very sluggish and ineffectual, not least because of our sedentary lifestyles and high-sodium diets. A sluggish lymphatic system means that this system of waste disposal is compromised, and the body suffers from a build-up of stagnant lymph.
The Lymph
The lymph is a colourless fluid. Its main functions are:
To breakdown harmful substances (waste products, viruses, bacteria)
To strengthen the body’s immune system by producing white blood cells
To eliminate excess fluid from the tissues
The Nodes (Glands)
The lymph nodes filter out and destroy toxic material collected from the body via the lymph. During the course of any infection, the nodes become enlarged, often painful and inflamed. The nodes are located in the neck, the armpits, abdomen and the groin.
The Benefits of MLD
Is both preventative and remedial by enhancing the immune system, it also alleviates many chronic conditions
Sinusitis, nasal congestion, catarrh
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), constipation
Arthritic swelling, pain and inflammation
Puffy eyes
Swollen legs, ankles
Post operative inflammation and swelling
Post plastic surgery (face, neck, abdomen, thighs etc) by speeding up healing, pain reduction, bruising and swelling
Calms the central nervous system for stress reduction
It is the most effective component for the treatment and control of Lymphoedema
The Treatment
The first visit will be an explanation of how the lymphatic system works and a thorough consultation where the following areas will be discussed: medical history, current symptoms, diet, exercise and lifestyle. A treatment plan will then be worked out accordingly.
