Manual Lymphatic Drainage
For a Healthier Immune System
About Lymphatic Drainage
Also known as Lymphatic Massage and Manual Lymph Drainage ( MLD ) . These names are interchangeable and refer to a powerful body of work that helps reduce swelling, boost immunity and aid in detoxification.
The Lymphatic System
The body is composed of approximately 70-80 % water or lymph fluid. Lymph carries specialized cells that seek out and destroy viruses, bacteria, toxins, waste and any other invading organisms. The Lymphatic system is a key part of the body's immune system. It also circulates proteins, hormones and immune cells throughout the body that are vital to maintaining physiological well-being and balance.
The Lymphatic system is similar to a freeway system within the body, it has various waste recycling centers ( Lymph Nodes) strategically placed along those "highways". The Lymph travels through a system of ducts, trucks, vessels and capillaries carrying waste products to those centers for elimination.
In the body lymph nodes become swollen if vessels become compromised ( like a clogged drain ) it can pool and create a swelling called edema. This is often seen in people who have lymph nodes removed through surgery or whose nodes have been damaged by radiation.
If the flow of lymphatic fluid is blocked or disrupted, destructive organisms may accumulate, allowing disease to set in. Stagnant fluid can hinder the regeneration of tissue after surgeries, injuries or other invasive procedures. It can also hasten the aging process and accelerate the development of fine lines and wrinkles
How Lymph Drainage Works
Manual Lymph Drainage stimulates better function of the immune system by manually activating fluid circulation.
Through specific manual techniques, I move the lymph along proper pathways to encourage the body to move the stagnant fluid along to help reduce edema, boost the immune system and enhance detoxification.
What to expect in a session
After disrobing, on the table you will be completely covered by sheets to insure warmth, comfort and security. Using flat hands, the therapist applies very light repetitive strokes and pumping actions to various parts of the body to aid the circulation and redirection of the lymphatic fluid.
Who will benefit from Lymphatic Drainage
Patients facing elective or required surgery on any part of the body, including cesarean or cosmetic.
Anyone experiencing swelling due to a mastectomy, lumpectomy or lymph node removal or damage.
Pregnant moms with swollen hands or feet.
Those people who experience reoccurring infections, despite taking multiple rounds of antibiotics.
People who often get sick, lingering coughs or colds.
Anyone bedridden or physically inactive.
Anyone suffering from low energy, depression or constant fatigue.
Adults and Children who need help boosting their immune system. Helps them to ward off colds, flus and other viruses.
Conditions Lymph Drainage helps with
Due to the relationship of the lymphatic system to the immune system, lymph drainage can be beneficial in addressing a wide array of health disorders. It also serves as a powerful tool in preventative health maintenance.
Lymphatic Drainage has been helpful with the following conditions:
Chronic Pain
Cosmetic applications: anti aging, cellulite reduction, wrinkle prevention.
Detoxification
Edema ( swelling ) due to pregnancy, injury or poor circulation.
Fibromyalgia
Insomnia, stress and loss of vitality
Lymphedema ( extreme swelling ) due to poor circulation or removal of lymph nodes.
Recurring colds, viruses or illnesses
Tissue regeneration, including burns and scars
Relief of chronic or subacute inflammation including sinusitis, bronchitis and allergies
Surgical procedures ( pre and post surgery treatments are recommended )
How often should you have Lymph drainage ?
Length of treatment depends on your goals for healing and the nature of the disorder being addressed.
One or two sessions may be all you need to bolster your immune system during cold and flu season if you are in relatively good health. Numerous or ongoing sessions may be required to treat serious conditions such as lymphedema or cancer.
Session length can range from 90 min ( first time client) to 75 min and 30 minutes for spot treatments.
