Manual Lymphatic Drainage
What is lymphatic drainage?
It's a subtle and non-intrusive manual approach with a profound impact on the body. Acknowledged by both the medical and spa wellness sectors, this gentle touch physical therapy is analgesic and restorative. MLD induces profound relaxation and expedites cellular repair and regeneration.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system, an extensive network of vessels, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of circulatory fluids. Its primary function is to transport excess water, proteins, pathogens, and waste from the connective tissue back to the bloodstream. Throughout this transportation process, the lymphatic system undergoes cleaning, filtering, and concentration, with numerous immune reactions taking place in the lymph nodes.
How does manual lymphatic drainage work?
Named for its primary goal of "drainage," MLD expedites the removal of metabolic wastes and pathogens stored in loose connective tissue by accelerating lymphatic flow. This process enables a more efficient transport of nutrients and oxygen to the cells.
Contraindications (can’t receive treatment":
Acute infectious and inflammatory disease
Fever
Serious circulatory problems
Major cardiac problems
Hemorrhage
Malignant ailments, even an undiagnosed lump
Precautions:
Kidney problems
Bronchial asthma
Thyroid problems
Medications
1st Trimester pregnancy (risk miscarriage)
Removed spleen
Benefits:
Analgesic (relieve pain)
Decongestive
Anti-inflammatory
Restorative
Induces a relaxation response that effectively combats physical stress
Targets and inhibits the negative effect of stress and reduces inflammation
Effects:
Sympatholytic
The body undergoes resetting and repairing processes during periods of rest or when the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is engaged. MLD activates the PNS in 30 minutes or less, facilitating these rejuvenating effects.
Analgesic (relieve pain)
Pain sends prolonged, slow signals throughout the body. MLD activates mechanoreceptors in the body, triggering much faster signals that effectively override or block the pain signal.
Drainage
MLD enhances lymphangiomotoricity, reducing transit stretch time (the duration for nutrients to reach the cell). Additionally, MLD induces Thixotropy in the loose connective tissue, enabling it to transition between a gel and liquid state. When the tissue is more liquid, nutrients reach the cell more rapidly, and toxins are released faster, reducing the risk of infection after surgery and promoting detoxification.
MLD Applications:
Treatment is performed by certified Manual Lymph Drainage therapists.
Venous insufficiency
Non-infected inflammatory conditions (e.g. sprains and strains)
Ulceration
Lifestyle Disorders
Dermatological conditions
Circulatory disturbances
Sports injuries
CRPS (RSD)
Burns
Pre- and post-plastic surgery or any surgury
Fibromyalgia
Conditions that MLD can help (list isn’t exhaustive):
Venous insufficiency
Inflammation
Ulceration
Poor circulation and fluid retention
Sports injuries
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSD)
Burns
Pre and post-cosmetic surgery
Breast concerns