Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD)

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage has become increasingly popular as people begin to the learn the benefits and medical professionals are recommending it for their patients. It is a technique that has been around for a long time. The philosopher Aristotle knew about the lymphatic system and referred to it as a "different system that was not blood" a "colourless fluid."

MLD is a powerful cleansing technique that removes and drains waste from the body via the lymph nodes. The lymphatic system is just under the skin and so MLD is a very gentle technique that stimulates the movement of lymph. There are many techniques, the VODDER method is the most popular method, and this is the technique I use at the clinic.

MLD is an effective treatment for a wide range of problems including swelling (oedema), bloating, post-surgery, headaches, and skin disorders. It is also great to boost the immune system by increasing immune cells and lymphocytes.

How does the lymphatic system work?

The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system. Its main function is to drain, remove waste, and combat infections.

Lymph is the fluid that moves around the system by a lymphatic collector which is a tiny muscle that moves the lymph. Lymph fluid contains water, proteins, fats, blood cells and items such as hormones. Lymph fluid is taken to the lymph nodes which filters out all the bad stuff, such as viruses, bacteria, parasites etc.

You have around 800-1200 lymph nodes around the body, and they are in your abdomen, armpits, groin, behind the knees, pectorals, base of the skull and in your ankles.

(swollen Lymph nodes in the armpits https://www.scientificanimations.com/wiki-images/)

Within the lymph nodes you have lymphocytes which eat up all these bad things. If you become unwell your lymph nodes can swell up, as your body fights off infection. Above your clavicle there is a thoracic duct where the waste goes. You have approx. 1.5 litres of lymph that goes through the thoracic duct and put back into the blood stream.

If your lymphatic system is not in good condition or compromised due to pregnancy, surgery, conditions etc then the body can take longer to move fluid and this is where symptoms such as swelling, low immunity and cellulite etc, can present itself.

Why a MLD massage ?

Western culture has a diet of highly processed foods which can cause stress on the lymphatic system, along with low fluid intake most of us have sluggish systems. The flow of the lymph can be stimulated through internal stimulation, arterial pulse, deep breathing and exercise. Also, through manual movement and this is where MLD comes into play.

MLD is also beneficial after surgery as it speeds up recovery time and reduces post-surgical swelling and fibrosis (scar tissue formation).

MLD can benefit everyone, and regular sessions can be extremely effective. A full body treatment works best.

You can support your lymphatic system by drinking plenty of water, dry body brushing . Taking deep breaths, stretches, and also through gentle exercise such as yoga.