What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
The lymphatic system is responsible for pumping lymphatic fluids around the body. The lymphatic system relies on the natural movements of healthy muscle tissue to move the fluids around, so when these fluids are blocked or disrupted, it can cause pain, swelling, and in more severe cases, lymphedema. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is the manipulation of lymphatic fluid through very specific and targeted manual movements to clear the disruption and promote movement of the lymphatic fluid.
What are some of the benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help you by:
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Treating pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as lymphedema (Level 3 Dr Vodder therapist only), fibromyalgia, musculoskeletal issues and arthritis
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Treating swelling caused by chronic conditions, surgery, or injury
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Promoting relaxation and helping to relieve stress, fatigue, and insomnia
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Helping in the treatment of superficial skin conditions
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Reducing severity and pain associated with sinusitis
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Helping to reduce episodes and severity of migraines
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What should you expect from Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage begins with consultation with your therapist. You should provide as much relevant information about your state of health as possible. It will help your therapist to create a treatment that will be very specific and unique to your needs. The hands on treatment is very gentle and starts by stimulating lymph nodes in the neck and gradually progressing to the areas nearest of swelling. The skin is slowly stretched out while the lymphatic fluids are guided towards the healthy nodes. Due to its slow and gentle movement style, Manual Lymphatic Drainage can be very relaxing and therapeutic for both body and mind. MLD must never hurt or feel uncomfortable.