Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
The lymphatic system is a system of ducts running parallel to the circulatory system, however, instead of carrying blood, it carries lymph, a whitish liquid capable of mobilizing very large molecules such as
proteins.
When the lymphatic system is congested, lymph nodes cannot perform their work properly, which results in an inflamed lymph arising.
Manual lymph drainage is a technique performed with gentle, soft, slow, and repetitive movements that stimulate lymph circulation, improving edema, inflammation and the retention of lymph.
MLD improves a person’s general health status and positively influences the nervous system. In addition, it also specifically treats various other conditions and boosts the immune system dramatically.
The manual lymphatic drainage technique was born just over one hundred years ago by the Danish marriage, Estrid Vodder (naturopath) and Emil Vodder (physiotherapist), who, for years, used this technique to improve their patients’ health.
Indications of MLD
Manual lymph drainage has abundantly been used in alternative medicine, but it is also increasingly used in hospitals, mainly in oncology for the treatment of lymphedema, traumatic edemas,
and lymphatic complications after surgery. MLD also provides good results in the field of aesthetics.
These are some of the indications of the MLD:
• Edema (pregnancy, facial, infestations, nervous system, postoperative, etc.)
• Varicose veins
• Fibromyalgia
• Acne
• Cellulitis
• Tired or swollen legs
• Migraines, headaches, or vertigo
• Arthrosis or arthritis
• Bruising
• Hypertension
• Premenstrual edema
• Hypothyroidism
• Edema kidney problems
• Digestive disorders
• Anxiety and stress
Benefits of MLD
• Regulates water balance in the body
• Improves the lymphatic system functions
• Improves circulation
• Cleanses the body
• Sooths the nervous system
• Lowers high blood pressure
• Stimulates kidney function
• Stimulates the immune system
Contraindications of MLD
• Acute infections or inflammations
• Edema heart failure
• Phlebitis or Thrombophlebitis
• Hyperthyroidism
• Ongoing cancer
• Asthma
• Hypotension
Make sure the person applying this therapy is certified massage
therapist (LMT)
By Andy Caso.
Writing and rectification in English by Andrea Caso.