Manual Lymph Drainage History And Uses
Manual Lymph Drainage, also known as MLD, is a technique created by the Austrian Doctor Emil Vodder in the 1930′s for the treatment of immune disorders. In 1932 Vodder turned his attention to the lymph system and he finally introduced his new technique in the French capital in 1936. He and his wife Estrid spent the rest of their lives teaching their technique and today it is still taught in the same way.
It involves massage techniques to encourage the movement of lymph around the body – the lymphatic system being the system involved in detoxification and disposal of metabolic waste to improve the immune system and energy levels. Lymph itself is a colourless liquid that is involved in the removal or transfer of bacteria, vitamins, hormones, waste products from the tissues back to the blood vessels and from the blood vessels back to the tissues.
Problems in the body occur when the lymph system gets blocked so can’t function properly any more. Pain and swelling can be experienced.
Manual Lymph Drainage works by encouraging the lymphatic vessels to contract in a more organised way and by mechanically encouraging the movement of lymph around the body. The physiotherapy movements are slow and gentle to simulate the bodys normal actions. A physiotherapist will use tiny, repetitive circular motions. Lymph nodes are also stimulated and the immune system is encouraged to improve.
Many conditions respond well to this technique such as sinus problems, tension headaches, ME, arthritis, stiff neck, supraspinatus tendonitis, lymphoedema and sprains. MLD can also be recommended after operations to help reduce swelling. Because the nervous system is improved with MLD it can also be beneficial in treating stress and related problems.
Using MLD means that the backlog of fluid is reduced and pain felt by the patient is lessened. The body is restored to better function.
MLD is very calming and allows a patient to totally relax during treatment. It should not cause any unwanted side effects.
It is important to find a qualified practitioner and several sessions with them may be needed.
MLD can be effectively used alongside connective tissue manipulation.