Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD)
Our body consists of interconnected systems. Among them is the lymphatic system, which is an extensive network of vessels that facilitates the movement of a fluid called lymph. The lymphatic system is part of our immune system and important to our well-being.
Disclaimer: For general medical information only
The lymph is a fluid that circulates through the body in the same manner that blood does. Along its journey, it picks up toxins, bacteria and viruses, among other things. These are then filtered through the lymph nodes and removed from the body. The lymph nodes can and do get swollen as a result of bacteria and virus exposure.
The lymphatic system is made of up (lymph) vessels and is considered to be the body’s second circulatory system after the cardiovascular system. Its vessels, similar to the cardiovascular system’s veins and capillaries, are connected to the lymph nodes where the lymph fluid is filtered. Lymph fluid is a clear fluid containing white blood cells that help to fight infection throughout the body.
The lymphatic system, however, differs from the cardiovascular system in the sense that it does not have its own “pump”. It relies on the body’s movements and breathing to convey the lymph fluid to the nodes.
As efficient as the lymphatic system is, it can be disrupted, resulting in health issues.
Some signs to look out for are:
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Recurring sore throat
• Poor bowel function
• Excessive mucus discharge, particularly in the morning
• Unexplained pain and stiffness in the morning
Other indicators are frequent blocked ears accompanied by regular popping or ringing, swollen tonsils or lymph nodes and heaviness, and swelling in the extremities.
The inability to lose weight could also be a sign of disruption.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a massage technique developed by Dr Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid, in 1936 to help facilitate the movement of lymphatic fluid.
MLD should not be confused with other massages, as this technique is focused explicitly on treating swollen lymph nodes and lymph vessels (to encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid).
Ref: Dr Vodder School International. Manual Lymph Drainage History (MLD). Available from: https://vodderschool.com/manual_lymph_drainage_history
The benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD) are plenty.
These include:
• Encouraging the natural flow of lymph fluid
• Helping to clear congestion
• Increasing the lymph system's carrying capacity, which increases the body's ability to fight infections
• Helps to reduce swollen ankles in pregnancy, and peripheral swelling of hands, arms, legs and feet
MLD also helps treat lymphedema, where there is swelling due to the build-up of lymph fluid in the body. It also aids healing post-surgery (especially post-liposuction), improves skin texture (including reducing the appearance of scars) and increases immunity.
The lymphatic system plays an important role in our overall health, and a healthy system brings about many benefits, not least an improved immune system.
Other benefits of MLD include the following:
• Encourages the natural flow of lymph fluid
• Helps to clear congestionIncreases the lymph system's carrying capacity, which increases the body's ability to fight infections
• Helps to reduce swollen ankles in pregnancy, and peripheral swelling of hands, arms, legs and feet
• Aids healing post-surgery (especially post-liposuction), improves skin texture (including reducing the appearance of scars) Improving cellulite
MLD does not affect the muscles (as it is a gentle, light and superficial massage technique). Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is meant to stimulate lymph nodes, increase rhythmic contractions of the lymphatics, and encourage their function to reroute stagnated lymphatic fluid.
MLD is an effective preventive and post-operative massage and can be combined with Waves & Vibrations Therapy to improve swelling and reduces post-surgery pain. MLD increases venous blood flow (deep and superficial veins).
General massage, such as Swedish massage, involves manual manipulation of the soft tissue to reduce muscle adhesions and knots, relieve tension and help with relaxation.
Post-surgery swelling is a common issue, and it is a stage of the healing process. Usually, swellings would subside as the healing process occurs, but sometimes this does not seem to be the case. Manual lymphatic drainage massage can address the issue and speed up the healing process.
Post-surgery manual lymphatic drainage massage also helps to boost metabolism and immunity and improve skin elasticity.
Liposuction is a popular body contouring and fat removal procedure as it enables individuals to get rid of stubborn fat that is resistant to exercise and diet.
Post liposuction, fluid may accumulate in the treated area, causing the appearance of bumps and lumps.
Manual lymphatic drainage massage can address issues related to post-liposuction procedures as it:
• Help to eliminate toxic substances from the body
• Reduces post-surgical scar formation
• Facilitates lymph flow to help reduce swelling
• Enhances the flow of lymphatic fluid in the lymphatic system
Your condition will first be evaluated to ensure that manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD) would be appropriate. Problem areas will be identified and worked on.
As with most massages, there may be slight discomfort, especially when the therapist is working on tender areas. If the discomfort or pain exceeds your comfort point, let the therapist know.
This is dependent on the issue faced by the patient, and our trained MLD therapist will dispense the appropriate advice accordingly.