What is Manual Lymph Drainage?
This is a gentle, non-invasive manual technique that has a powerful effect on the body. Research in Australia, Europe and North America has proven its efficacy as a stand – alone treatment and in combination with other therapies. MLD has grown to be the internationally most well known manual.
The Effects of MLD
Forty years of scientific studies MLD produces three major effects, all of which have been scientifically studied and confirmed:
Decongestive effect
- Any swelling of the body- with exceptions of cardiac (heart) and renal (kidney) edema can be successfully treated with MLD. The special MLD techniques induce a pumping effect in the tissue. The lymphatic pathways’ own rhythm is accelerated to up to 20 times its normal rate. This rapid drainage effect results in rapid decongestion and restoration of normal tissue
condition.
Sympatholytic Effect
- MLD is very soothing, Frequently patients doze off within minutes. Steady and rhythmic had strokes are used, so if you are feeling stressed then try some sessions to prevent burnout.
Analgesic Effect
- Pain relief through MLD is like trying to scratch away the pain and itching of a mosquito bite. Scratching will stimulate large skin areas, thus reducing the feeling of pain, just as MLD stimulates the lymphatic system to alleviate pain. MLD results in pain mediators being drained into the lymphatic system more rapidly, so that they are no longer active in the tissue. Any prolonged pain, such as pain generated by migraine, acute injuries, fibromyalgia, etc can be treated using MLD
Immunological Effect
- MLD helps accelerate the transportation of bacteria and allergens to the places where the bodys defense system is located (lymph nodes) and where the increased rate of lymphatic drainage heightens the sensitization of lymphocytes and macrophages. The latter can travel more rapidly via the blood flow to reach the “scene of action” and intervention by phagocytosis, which in turn will improve overall immunity.
Manual Lymph Drainage can help with:
- Edema resulting from bruises, sprains, dislocations, & fractures
- Post operational edemas
- Upper & lower extremities edema
- Edema under eye bags
- Chronic fatigue, lack of sleep, tension and stress periods
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Post partum leg and ankle swelling
- Rheumatic Illness (chronic poly-arthritis, gout, & bursitis)
- Facial paresis
- Local inflammation in the respiratory system (chronic types of rhinitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, paradentosis and bronchitis)
- Digestive problems
Complete Decongestive Therapy
CDT is an intensive program that combines bandaging, compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and self care for the treatment of lympedema.
What is Lymphedema ?
Lymphedema refers to swelling that generally occurs in one of your arms or legs. Sometimes both arms or both legs swell. Lympedema is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment. It results from a blockage in your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid build up leads to swelling. While there is presently no cure for lymphedema it can be managed with early diagnosis and diligent care of your affected limb. Using CDT is the gold standard for lymphedema treatments.