What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) simply assists the body’s lymph flow and may help support a healthy immune system. One needs to imagine the lymph system as like the body’s waste disposal. It is responsible for cleansing our tissues and maintaining a balance of fluids within the body. It filters waste matter and harmful cells (via lymph nodes) and drains back into large veins of the body just behind the collarbone, on each side of the neck, goes back to the heart and is removed from the body as urine. MLD is often referred to as being a type of massage, however, typically no oil or wax is used during the treatment and it is very gentle and extremely relaxing. Circular rhythmic movements and strokes are used during the treatment.
MLD is most commonly associated with the treatment of lymphoedema:
What is Lymphoedema/water retention?
Most of us will have experienced a bit of swelling in our lower legs at the end of a long working day or after a long period of just standing or sitting down. Now this is considered to be very mild water retention. More specifically, it is a collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues under the skin. Oedema occurs, when lymph fluid cannot flow as efficiently because some glands may have been removed in surgery or damaged by i.e. radiation therapy. Some early signs of significant water retention include: mild intermittent swelling, tightness or aching and/or heaviness in the affected limb.
Who may benefit from Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
- Clients with primary or secondary lymphoedema
- Clients with swelling post-cancer treatments
- Clients suffering from oedema, e.g. swollen ankles during pregnancy
- Clients with oedema or soft tissue swelling post-trauma, e.g. sports injuries, sprains and strains etc
During the consultation at the beginning of each session Daniela will determine if you have any contraindications to receiving MLD treatments and the appropriate frequency of treatment for you.
MLD may also be suitable for:
- Clients suffering from chronic sinusitis and migraine
- Clients with pain, non- infected inflammation, oedema and swelling post-surgery, e.g. post cosmetic and plastic surgery incl. tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation, face lift etc.
- People recuperating from a chronic illness. Our clients report the treatment to be very relaxing and soothing.
- People recovering from cold and flu. However, it is not beneficial during acute stages of illness (i.e. fever) as it can worsen the condition/symptoms.
- Cosmetic skin treatment (i.e. can aid in reducing the appearance of stretch marks wrinkles.)
- Clearer looking skin and improved skin tone during detox or weight loss programs.
- Reduced appearance of brusing
