Manual Lymphatic Drainage, MLD, is a specialised form of treatment which is designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. A treatment involves gentle movements of the skin, stretching and circling in a rhythmical manner, helping to stimulate the contraction of the lymphatic vessels. This results in excess fluid and waste products being removed from the body's tissues and into the lymphatic system. The fluid passes through many lymph nodes where it is cleaned, filtered and concentrated before it returns to the blood stream. Many of the body's immune responses occur in the lymph nodes.
The lymphatic system is very similar in structure to the circulatory system, i.e. vessels the size of arteries are situated next to actual arteries, veins next to lymphatic vessels of similar size and so forth and the two systems work in conjunction with each other. Unlike the circulatory system, it is classed as an open system and actually begins in capillary-sized vessels located just below the skin's surface. As it does not have a pump of its own to help move lymph fluid around the body, it relies upon the movements of the muscles, the beat (pump) of the blood vessels, deep abdominal breathing and a well-functioning intestinal system. Sometimes the very nature of our busy, often sedentary lives can cause our lymphatic system to become sluggish and slow. This in turn can be the initial cause of many ailments for which MLD is so beneficial.
Dr Emil Vodder, a Danish physical therapist, developed Manual Lymphatic Drainage. He created the movements we use today and initially used his techniques to clear facial acne and chronic catarrh. His intensive study of the lymphatic system led him to develop treatments for the whole body and to conclude that MLD could be applied to almost any condition because of the importance of the lymphatic system to our overall health. Modern research has shown that his groundbreaking work was, and continues to be, effective in influencing the lymphatic and nervous systems.
As each condition for which a person comes will vary, different parts of the body may be treated. However, the neck is always treated first, as a third of the body's lymph nodes are located in this area and it is important to clear the pathways where lymph will move. The area proximal is always treated before the affected part of the body; for example if an ankle is swollen, the neck will be treated first, followed by the abdomen and then the upper leg before the lower leg. And, as MLD involves working on skin, a person will undress accordingly to allow contact to be made with the skin. One's privacy and dignity is maintained at all times, and the parts of the body not being treated will be covered with towels. The treatment itself is very gentle and very relaxing. Prior to any treatment a detailed personal history will be taken and where necessary one's GP will be contacted for additional information.
Each session is normally an hour; however, depending upon the condition being treated this could range from 1/2 hour to 1-1/2 hours.
One of the biggest benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage is as a cleanser of the skin. Because MLD helps remove waste products and fluid in the tissues, the skin benefits from this and will begin to look clearer, brighter and fresher in just a few treatments.
Lymphoedema is the swelling of a body part, often an arm or leg; however, it can occur in the face, neck or abdomen too. It develops when the lymphatic system is absent, underdeveloped or impaired in some way. There are two classes of lymphoedema, primary or congenital, i.e. someone born with an underdeveloped lymphatic system and secondary, which can be the result of trauma, injury or surgery.
The treatment of lymphoedema involves several components and is commonly referred to as Combined Decongestive Therapy, CDT. These additional elements are compression bandaging of the affected limb, exercise, selection and fitting of compression garments following bandaging and good skin care. Simple Lymph Drainage (SLD) can also be taught to the lymphoedema sufferer or designate. Not all cases will necessarily require bandaging. The compression garments worn may be sleeves, gloves, knee-high garments, thigh-length garments or tights, toe caps, etc. This condition requires a more intensive course of treatment initially, which is then followed by self-care and can include regular visits for Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Each case is individual and a course of treatment will be determined following an initial consultation.
More specific information about lymphoedema can be obtained by visiting some of the attached links which can be found in the Publications & Links section.
The Hivamat 200 unit is relatively new to the UK; it is safe, has been extensively researched. I am using in conjunction with MLD treatments, especially with lymphoedema.
Kinesio® Taping involves applying special Kinesio® Tex Tape to help assist in the removal of oedema by directing it towards lymph ducts, as in the case of lymphoedema or other swelling. It is also used to help re-educate weakened muscles, prevent muscle fatigue, relieve pain, improve range of movement, reduce inflammation, etc.
It was developed by Dr Kenso Kase, a Japanese-born chiropractor, who used the tape to help in rehabilitation of his patients. The tape is very thin and elastic much like the skin; it allows for free movement with no restrictions while being worn. Due to the qualities of the tape it has been successfully used in reducing lymphoedema and redirecting the fluid to undamaged lymph ducts. Kinesio® Taping will be discussed during an initial consultation as it may be of use during treatment or following treatment as a self-help modality.
If you would like to discuss how MLD Therapy may be able to help you, please feel free to call and have a chat on 07803 562248 or use the online form to get in touch or make an appointment
Yvonne Foster-Palmer completed Dr Vodder's course in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) with the North American Vodder School in 2000 and is a member of MLDUK. She worked in a busy lymphoedema clinic for over 5 years and has experience of treating cancer patients and individuals who have primary and/or secondary lymphoedema. She is also trained to use Kinesio® Taping. For more information about Yvonne's qualifications and experience please refer to her biography.
