Manual lympathic drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a light, rhythmical skin-stretch that helps to promote the movement of lymphatic fluid. It is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. If a person has a swollen area it is applied to the unaffected area first making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region.

MLD 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. Deep breathing techniques called diaphragmatic breathing are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase the movement of fluid toward the heart.

The intention behind manual lymphatic drainage behind MLD is to augment the rhythmic contractions and stimulate the lymph nodes to improve their activity to reroute stagnant lymphatic fluid. MLD 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. Manual lymphatic drainage supports a person's fluid balance and is an immune-response powerhouse.

MLD benefits person’s who have the following:

✶ Every day stress

✶ Headaches/Migraines

✶ Post-trauma, such as whiplash or sprains

✶ Fibromyalgia

✶ Rheumatoid Arthritis

✶ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

✶ Scleroderma

✶ Pain Control/General Relaxation

✶ Sinus congestion during cold and allergy season

✶ Post-mastectomy edema

✶ Post-hysterectomy edema

✶ Varicose veins/chronic venous insufficiency

✶ Post-surgical swelling

✶ Pre-surgery preparation

✶ Post-surgery recovery

✶ Pre-/Post cosmetic surgery

✶ Post-amputation

✶ Post-vein stripping

Understanding the lymphatic system

To appreciate how MLD bolsters immunity, it is essential to understand the lymphatic system’s role. This network of vessels and nodes is a part of the circulatory system and a key player in immune function. It transports lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells crucial to fighting infections. Manual lymphatic drainage employs gentle, rhythmic strokes to increase the movement of lymph through its vessels. This acceleration in lymph flow means quicker transportation of white blood cells throughout the body, enhancing the immune response to pathogens.

By promoting the efficient removal of toxins and metabolic waste from the body, manual lymphatic drainage reduces the burden on the immune system. A cleaner internal environment allows the immune system to focus on defending against harmful microbes.

The movement of lymph also stimulates the production and activation of lymphocytes – types of white blood cells. These cells are crucial in the body's defense mechanism, identifying and destroying pathogens.

Preventing Lymph Stagnation: Stagnation of lymph fluid can lead to a weakened immune response. MLD prevents this by ensuring a continuous flow, thereby maintaining an active and alert immune system.

Additional Immune Benefits :

✶ Reducing Stress: MLD is deeply relaxing, and by reducing stress, it indirectly supports immune function. Chronic stress is a known immune response suppressor, so alleviating stress can positively impact immunity.

✶ Improving Overall Health: Regular MLD sessions contribute to general well-being, integral to a strong immune system. A healthier body is better equipped to fight off infections.

✶ Suitable Candidates for MLD MLD is beneficial for a wide range of individuals, especially those recovering from surgery, experiencing lymphedema, or seeking to enhance their immune health. It is also an excellent preventive measure for those looking to maintain a robust immune system, particularly during seasons when susceptibility to illness is high.

FAQs

  • The goal of manual lymphatic drainage is skin stretch to encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid. MLD is low, gentle pressure, reducing lymphatic fluid accumulation, and reduces lymphedema. MLD is done only by certified lymphedema therapists.

    The goal of massage is deep-tissue pressure to realign muscle fibers. Massage is high pressure, as it increases blood flow and lymphatic fluid to the area. Massage treats muscle, joint or tendon injury, and is done by massage therapists, physical therapists, etc.

  • The effects of MLD are:

    -An increase of fluid movement from the spaces between cells (interstitial spaces) into lymphatic vessels and back to the large blood vessels leading to the heart.

    -Reduction in lymphedema swelling

    -An increase in lymphatic-vessel, smooth-muscle pumping

    -A relaxation effect on the muscles (called parasympathetic response)

    -Pain reduction

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