Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Reduce Swelling and Promote Healing
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a very light, rhythmical form of massage that is particularly effective in:
- Reducing primary and secondary lymphoedema, the latter sometimes arising after surgery
- Helping to detoxify the body and enhancing and cleansing the immune system
- Reducing pain, e.g. headaches and backache
- Improving chronic conditions, e.g. sinusitis, arthritis, acne and other skin conditions
- Relieving swelling and fluid retention, for example swollen ankles and puffy eyes
- Helping to heal injuries and reduce bruising
- Improving scars and stretch marks and the general appearance of the skin
How does manual lymphatic drainage work?
MLD encourages the collection of a body fluid known as lymph. Lymph is present in the tissue throughout the body and its function is to carry nutrients to the cells and collect any waste, cell debris, bacteria and foreign material present in the tissue spaces.
The massage allows the lymph to flow more freely around the body, renewing and strengthening cells and tissues while allowing it to be cleansed as it passes through the lymph nodes. Any excess fluid eventually to leaves the body via the kidneys.
Where the lymphatic system is insufficient, or the pathway is blocked, this can result in a build-up of fluid and a condition known as primary or secondary lymphoedema may develop. Specific MLD techniques are then used that allow the fluid to drain via a different route.
The medical benefits of Manual lymph drainage are highly regarded in Europe and USA. In the U.K. it is now becoming an accepted part of Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) used within the NHS and other medical institutions for problems of lymphoedema.
What happens in a MLD treatment?
In the first session I take a full medical history and discuss your condition with you. After making an assessment I explain how the treatment will progress, how many you will need and, if agreed, I will commence with a short treatment.
The massage is very gentle and soporific and is done in a warm, safe environment. Usually only some clothes need be removed.
Contacts
For more information see the MLDUK website: www.mlduk.org.uk
Or phone MLDUK : 01592 748008
Lymphoedema Support Network: 020 7351 4480