Good Massage - Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a technique which was developed by Dr Emil Vodder fifty years ago. It is a gentle
circular massage which is carried out with precise, rhythmic movements exerting different intensities of pressure. The additional circular, pumping and cupping motions aim to transport the lymphatic oedema fluid to the centre.
MLD treats the whole body, not only the affected parts, to stimulate a central lymphatic flow to enable the drainage from the other parts of the body. Afterwards the trunk and extremities are treated.
MLD is used widely. Examples are all congestive conditions (cancer), acute and chronic injuries, acne, scars, maternal care.
In case of acute inflammation, thrombosis, tumour spread in the lymph vessels near the skin and cardiac oedema (oedema resulting from congestive heart failure), MLD should not be used.
MLD should never be the only decongestive therapy, but should always be combined with other compression methods (compression bandaging, medical compression garments).
With this therapy acute or chronic lymphoedema, lipoedema and idiopathic oedema can be treated.
To get the most benefit from MLD, gentle exercise such as swimming, Nordic walking and cycling is recommended.
To arrange an appointment or discuss Lymphatic Drainage contact us now.