Lymphatic Drainage Massage
MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage) is an advanced therapeutic method that involves a gentle, rhythmic massage designed to stimulate the lymphatic vessels and naturally encourage the flow of lymph fluid.
The lymphatic system is the body's second circulatory system, made up of lymph vessels, similar to the veins and capillaries of the circulatory system.
These lymph vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph fluid, a clear fluid that contains infection-fighting white blood cells throughout the body, is filtered.
Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymph system has no "pump" of its own and relies on bodily movement and breathing to transport the lymph fluid.
The lymph nodes filter the fluid to detect bacteria or other immune threats. If any are found, they then go into overdrive to produce infection-fighting white blood cells, which are then transported back throughout the body.
Signs that your lymphatic system might need a helping hand:
Headaches
Brain Fog
Chronically swollen lymph nodes or tonsils
Fatigue
Recurrent sore throats
Excess mucus production, especially in the morning
Frequent 'blocked' ears with regular popping and/or ringing
Weak immune system
Poor bowel function
Unable to lose weight
Unexplained pain and stiffness in the morning
Bloating, swelling and heaviness in the extremities
Unexplained pain, pressure and stiffness in the shoulders
Unexplained skin issues
How does MLD (manual lymphatic drainage massage) help?
Encourages natural flow of lymph fluid
Clears congestion
Increases the carrying capacity of the lymph system, thereby increasing the bodies ability to fight infections
Aids post-operative healing and help to prevent possible complications
Reduces peripheral swelling of arms, legs, hands and feet
Excellent for reduction of swollen ankles in pregnancy
Softens skin
Reduces appearance of scars
Understand the difference between manual lymphatic drainage massage over regular Massage Therapy is really important.
Massage applies enough pressure to reach underlying muscle tissue, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, which is an advanced therapeutic method, uses significantly less and could be compared to the pressure you would use to stroke a newborn's head.
They have different treatment aims with massage therapy targeting the circulatory system, muscles, and connective tissues as opposed to the lymphatic system.
If in doubt, please discuss with your Physiotherapist which treatment is best for you.