Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy
More than a massage, it is a whole body, systemic therapy that makes you feel good from the inside out!
Most people haven't heard of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Therapy or if they have , they're not really sure what it's good for. It is often linked with detoxing the body but it can be used for so much more.
As stated, it is more of a systemic therapy than a massage. What does this mean? It means that it stimulates various systems in the body, e.g. the lymphatic system, the immune system, even the digestive system! It does NOT work knots out of muscles and it does NOT use a deep pressure. What is DOES do is use is light, rhythmical strokes, designed to encourage the flow of lymph throughout the body. The lymph a clear-yellowish fluid that runs throughout the body, helping to rid it of toxins, infections and helps wounds to heal by taking away the unwated materials that build up in them. For this reason, MLD is an excellent way to help reduce recovery time after surgery and speed up healing of the wound.
Below are the answers to some of the more common questions about MLD therapy:
- What are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are located in multiple sites throughout the body. The most common areas we find lymph nodes are: in the armpits (axillary nodes), down the side of the neck (profundus), in the groin (inguinal/ iliacal), in the inner elbow (cubital), behind the knees (popliteal) and deep within the abdominal region (cysterna chylii). The main sets of nodes that are worked within an MLD treatment are the axilla, profundus, inguinal/iliacal and cysterna chylii. Not all areas may be worked, as this depends on what the individual needs from the treatment. The most common nodes that most people recognise are the profundus, found in the neck, as these nodes are the ones that are most like to swell and become tender if we suffer from an infection such as the flu or tonsillitis.
- Why is MLD light touch?
MLD uses a light tough for the simple reason that the lymphatic system is located close the surface of the skin. We don’t need to use a heavy touch to acieve great results. In fact, it’s better that we don’t because the firmer we push on the skin, the less effect it will have on the lymphatic system. Instead of a gentle pumping motion, all we would be doing is cutting off the flow of the lymph, rendering the treatment ineffective.
- What are the benefits of MLD therapy?
The immediate benefit of MLD therapy is the sense of relaxation and calmness one feels after the treatment finishes. It is also a very detoxifying treatment so you may experience in increase in thirst or need to go to the bathroom. More long term benefits of MLD therapy include:
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- improved immune system functions (reduces frequency and duration of colds/flu)
- increased energy
- recover from injury faster
- clearer skin
- possible weight loss
- improved digestion
- reduced stress
- better sleep
- Reasons for not using oil during mld massage
Due to the types of movements used during an MLD treatment it is not necessary to use a lubricant, such as oil, cream or lotion. In fact, it is better that no lubricant is used as the purpose of the movements is to move the upper layers of the skin over the lower layers of tissue to gain the desired effects. To do this, we need skin-to-skin contact and to be able to “hang onto” the skin as it moves over the underlying tissue.
- What is the sequence for lymphatic drainage massage for the body?
Unlike a Swedish massage where you can start anywhere on the body and then move to another part of the body, an MLD treatment has certain restrictions on the sequence of the body parts that are massaged. As we are trying to move fluid throughout the body and not work individual muscles or muscle groups, we need to take into consideration, where and how this fluid will and can be moved. For this reason, all MLD sessions will start with a basic sequence which is mostly done around the upper chest and neck region. This is because all lymph fluid drains into a node found under the collarbone (clavical) called the terminus. It makes sense to make sure that this node is working and ready to collect all the incoming fluid from the rest of the body. From here, we can choose which parts of the body to work on, depending on the individual client’s needs. If working the upper body and arms, the axilla nodes are then worked before continuing. If working the lower body, then the inguinal/iliacal nodes are worked before continuing. These nodular areas are like doors and need to be “opened” to allow proper lymph flow.
- What should I expect from mld session?
Aall new clients will be asked to fill in a history and contact form before their first MLD session. This enables me to assess the client and ensures that the most suitable treatment is suggested for the client. Before the treatment begins the client’s medical history, reasons for coming in, treatment plan and explanation of the treatment will be discussed. Depending on the needs of the client, the first MLD session will last approximately 60 minutes, including a 40-55 minute treatment. I always re-assess the client after the treatment, to get reactions and feelings from the client so I can be sure that the treatment is the right one for them. A glass of water is also give to the client at this time. After treatment care is also discussed before allowing the client to leave.
- How much does MLD cost?
My costs are based on an hourly rate, therefore a 60 minute treatment is €60 and a 90 minute treatment is €85. Usually the first 1 or 2 treatments are 60 minutes long and subsequent treatments are 90 minutes long. Again this all depends on the individual.
For more information on MLD therapy or for a personalised consultation to see if MLD can benefit YOU, please call us on 086 210 2791