Manual Lymphatic Drainage

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD):

MLD is a specialized massage technique with a very gentle touch, designed to enhance the flow of the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the immune system. This technique aims to reduce swelling, eliminate toxins from the body, and promote overall health. Unlike traditional massage therapies, MLD focuses mainly on the neck and torso, with most sessions performed with the client lying face-up.

Applications of MLD

MLD is sought for various reasons, including post-surgical recovery, edema management, digestive issues, immune system support, menstrual cycle regulation, sleep improvement, and managing chronic lymphedema, especially in cases of lymph node removal.

1. Post-Surgical Recovery: MLD is particularly beneficial after surgery to reduce swelling and bruising, diminish scarring, and aid in flushing out toxins introduced by anesthesia, antibiotics, or pain medications. It helps accelerate the healing process and reduce the recovery time.

2. Edema Management: Individuals experiencing edema, characterized by overall puffiness and sensitive nerves, find relief through MLD. It helps in reducing the excess fluid buildup and alleviating discomfort.

3. Digestive Issues: MLD can significantly impact digestive health. For digestive system treatment, a longer session (around 75 minutes) is recommended to provide focused treatment beyond what a standard MLD session offers.

4. Immune System Support: MLD aids in boosting the immune system. However, it’s important to note that if a person is already dealing with a mild illness, MLD may intensify symptoms initially as it increases the flushing of toxins and distribution of white blood cells.

5. Menstrual and Sleep Issues: Since MLD helps in regulating hormone distribution, it can positively affect issues related to intense menstrual cycles and sleeplessness.

6. Chronic Moderate Lymphedema: Particularly in cases of lymph node removal, MLD plays a vital role in managing chronic moderate lymphedema.

When to Avoid MLD

There are certain conditions when MLD is not recommended. These include:

• During an infection, sunburn, rash, or fever.
• Presence of blood clots or extremely swollen limbs.
• Post Brazilian Butt Lift surgery.
• If heavily intoxicated or dehydrated.

FAQs About MLD

1. Why is the Touch So Light in MLD? MLD involves a very light touch because the lymphatic system lies just beneath the skin’s surface. The technique involves feeling and following the rate and direction of your lymphatic flow, addressing any sluggish areas to improve flow patterns.

2. What are the Effects of MLD? After an MLD session, you might experience decreased inflammation and water retention, potentially leading to increased energy levels. Some individuals might feel fatigued, as it’s common for the body to flush more fluids, causing increased urination. MLD is deeply relaxing and soothing to the parasympathetic nervous system.

3. Will this help me look thinner or lose weight? We offer no guarantees on a trimmer look and many factors are involved, such as diet, exercise and water consumption.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Specific

1. When is it safe? Generally as soon as the client can comfortably lay on the massage table face-up it is safe to receive Lymphatic Drainage Massage. At least 3-4 days post surgery is the minimum required time before your first session, though this would require written clearance from the surgeon.
2. Your surgeon may recommend Lymphatic Drainage Massage 2-3 times/week for the first 4-6 weeks post-op and 1-2 times/week after during your recovery.
3. Please note that we do not perform any incisional drainage services; any drains, ports, or tubes must be removed, and the incisions must be closed and healed before your session.
4. We do not perform MLD post Brazilian Butt lift surgery or Upper Back Liposuction.
5. You must be able to lay on your back for your session.