Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specific, slow and rhythmical type of massage which helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid. This helps to promote body detoxification, reduce swelling, boosts the immune system and promotes deep relaxation.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps patients with the following conditions:
- Body detoxification
- Stress and stress-related conditions
- Sleep disorders
- Heavy and fatigued legs
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency
- Lymphedema
- Post-operative swelling after plastic surgeries and liposuction
- Pre-operative period before plastic and facial surgeries
- Mastodynia/ mastalgia (Breast pain)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (to reduce pain and swelling)
- Whiplash (early stages)
Traumatic and post-surgical edema (swelling)
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What it feels like?
Massage therapist uses very light pressure following a particular sequence. It uses a series of massage techniques, including stretching, compressing, gliding, and cupping motions. It is performed without oil or lotion application.
How Does It Work?
Our lymphatic system is predominantly a passive system. The movement of our lymph depends on contractions of the smooth muscles in the walls of lymph vessels as well as on the movement of skeletal muscles to move lymph through the vessels to the lymph nodes and then beyond the lymph nodes to the lymph ducts which return lymph to the cardiovascular system. When our tissue is fatigued due to an injury or our fast paced lifestyle the movement of the lymph slows down which subsequently affects how well we function. We may experience swelling of our face or body parts resulting in further slowing down our activity level and creating a vicious cycle of not feeling well.
Lymphatic drainage consists of light, repetitive motions to pump the lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic capillaries. The slow, rhythmic nature of these techniques also decreases pain perception and the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.
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What is the difference between traditional therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage?
The main difference between traditional (Swedish) massage and MLD is the amount of pressure applied during the procedure. In traditional massage the therapist often has to utilize very deep massage techniques to access the muscular layer of the body. In contrast, MLD affects the lymph vessels which are lying superficially in the dermis . In order to properly access them the therapist has to use just enough pressure to move the lymph fluid through.
MLD therapist always follows the specific sequence of special movements and techniques starting from the neck area and then working on the lymph nodes and lymph vessels.
The therapist doesn’t use any massage oil or lotion in order to maintain the correct movement without gliding over the skin.
How soon can I start Lymphatic drainage treatments after plastic surgery and liposuction?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is often recommended during the recovery stage starting from the first or second week after surgery. We strongly recommend asking your own surgeon about the proper time for you to start manual lymphatic drainage.
How long of a session should I book?
We recommend one hour for your first visit. Our lymphatic drainage therapist will determine the best time and frequency of the follow-up treatments upon the assessment of your condition. Typically we recommend half to one hour sessions.
Who will perform manual lymphatic drainage at Healthier Living?
Anastasia is a Registered Massage Therapist, Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Certified Pre and Post Natal Massage Therapist.
She graduated with Honors from the Kikkawa College of Massage Therapy. Additionally, she got certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) therapy training by Dr.Vodder School International and Academy of Lymphatic Studies.
Anastasia is looking forward to helping you relax, improve sleep, reduce pain and feel great again.
Anastasia Efimkina
RMT, CDT Therapist, BA
Massage Therapy