Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a specialized, gentle massage technique that helps stimulate the lymphatic system, encouraging the natural drainage of lymph fluids, which carry waste products away from tissues and back into the bloodstream. Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Emil Vodder, MLD is often used to reduce swelling, improve immune function, and promote overall wellness. Here’s how it works and its main benefits:

How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Works
  • Light, Rhythmic Strokes: The therapist uses gentle, rhythmic hand movements, typically applying light pressure to move the skin and stimulate lymphatic flow.
  • Targeted Areas: MLD focuses on areas where lymph nodes are concentrated (like the neck, armpits, and groin) to help mobilize lymph fluid through the body.
  • Direction of Flow: The strokes follow the direction of lymph flow toward the lymph nodes, encouraging proper drainage.
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
  • Reduces Swelling and Edema: MLD is particularly effective for reducing swelling from conditions like lymphedema, surgery, or injury.
  • Improves Immune Function: By helping to remove toxins and waste, MLD supports immune system health.
  • Enhances Healing: Many people use MLD post-surgery to speed up healing and reduce scar tissue formation.
  • Relieves Discomfort: MLD can be beneficial for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, fibromyalgia, and sinus congestion.
  • Promotes Relaxation: The gentle nature of MLD can also provide a calming, stress-relieving experience.
What to Expect During a Session
  • Gentle Touch: MLD is very gentle and should not be painful; the touch is much lighter than traditional massage.
  • Personalized Treatment: Therapists may focus on specific areas depending on your needs and any conditions you may have.

MLD is often used by people with specific health conditions but can also be helpful for general wellness and relaxation. It’s best to consult a qualified therapist if you’re considering MLD, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

Manual Lymphatic drainage Recommendations

Non/Pre -surgery manual lymphatic drainage

Generally We recommend 55 to 85 minutes per session, depending on your needs. Here are some general guidelines:
  • - **55 minutes**: A full-body session for general detox and boosting circulation.
  • - **85 minutes**: Best for thorough treatment, targeting multiple areas or deep areas such as swelling….

Frequency**: Initially, 1-2 sessions per week are common for therapeutic purposes (e.g., swelling), but it can be adjusted based on your condition. For maintenance, it can be reduced to once a month or as needed.

Post Surgery manual lymphatic drainage

Typically, one session of lymphatic drainage massage lasts for one hour, but can vary between 55-85minutes. The duration may vary depending on individual cases, considering factors such as the body area involved , volume of liposuction, pain levels, and tissue response to massage.

Frequency*** . In the early postoperative period, Lymphatic drainage should be performed more frequently than later in recovery. For example,At least three times a week during the first one or two weeks after surgery. As swelling decreases, Lymphatic drainage can be performed once a week, and later in recovery once every two weeks to three weeks. Incremental decreases in session frequency varies individually based on the pace of tissue recovery and will be determined by the Lymphatic massage therapist.