What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a mix of very light rhythmic movements intended to flush out toxins of the body and reduce water retention. The technique was developed in 1936 by the Vodders (Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid) for the treatment of swollen lymph nodes. It involves gently manipulating specific areas of your body to help lymph move to an area with working lymph vessels. MLD should not be confused with a traditional massage. MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid.
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Decongests lymphatic paths, making it possible for fluid to move out of the affected area.
- Helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics.
- Relieves swelling that happens when medical treatment or illness blocks your lymphatic system.
- Improves the healing process and speeds recovery after a surgery procedure, stimulating the lymphatic system to help reduce bruising, swelling, and pain.
- Stimulates nerve endings to diminish numbness.
- Provides analgesic and infection-preventing effects.
- Reduces and prevents the formation of hypertrophic scars or “keloids.”
- Promotes tissue regeneration.
Pre-Surgery Benefits
- Prepares tissue for the intervention
- Drains the tissue
- Clears the lymph passages to help prevent post-surgery edema
Post-Surgery Benefits
- Helps the body eliminate fluids and reduces swelling and discomfort associated with surgery.
- Improves circulation and minimizes edema.
- Reduces and prevents the formation of scars and fibrosis.
Contraindications
General Contraindications:
- Acute cellulitis/erysipelas
- Severe cardiac insufficiency
- Hepatic cirrhosis with abdominal fluid (ascites)
- Unstable hypertension
- Renal failure
- Untreated tuberculosis or malaria
- Superior vena cava obstruction
Local Contraindications:
- Untreated thyroid dysfunction
- Metastases
- Primary tumors