Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very light massage technique. When the treatment is given the skin is moved over the underlying tissue in the direction that the lymph needs to move. This stimulates the lymphatic vessels and increases lymphatic flow.
Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is swelling that can effect any part of the body and can be primary or secondary in origin.
Primary lymphoedema occurs in people who are born with an insufficient lymph system. It can occur at birth or at anytime of life.
Secondary lymphoedema occurs as a result of some cause, the most common being after surgery. During some surgical procedures lymph nodes are either removed or radiated and this can cause problems with the lymphatic system.
MLD has been found to be very beneficial in the treatment of lymphoedema and if necessary compression bandaging is applied after the treatment. In most cases it is necessary to have intensive treatment to begin with in order to reduce the swelling. Once the condition is improved, occasional treatment and the wearing of compression garments should maintain the improvement.
Sinus Problems
When sinusitis occurs frequently the lymph system in that area becomes extremely challenged as it is required to clear away the cell debris and toxins as a result of the infections and swelling of the face can occur. This can occur internally before it has reached the point when it is visible. This will create pressure on the exits of the sinuses so that mucus becomes trapped n the sinuses and can become infected. This causes major problems. Manual Lymphatic Drainage will serve to activate the lymphatic system, reduce any swelling. This will release the pressure on the sinuses and they will be able to clear.
Asthma & Eczema
MLD can be helpful in the treatment of asthma. When there is congestion in the chest MLD to the back and especially in the intercostal spaces can be very helpful. The lymph nodes in this area serve to drain the chest area.
Eczema can be caused by the body releasing toxins through the skin because they are not being removed appropriately through the lymphatic system internally. MLD can help to resolve this.
ME
When ME occurs many systems of the body become over stressed and shut down. One of the systems effected like this is the lymphatic system. The result of this is that the sufferer then is vulnerable to picking up any infections and viruses as their immune response is very poor. This makes their condition even worse. By having Manual Lymphatic Drainage their lymphatic system will become more active and the ability to fight off infections will improve. With sufferers of ME this is often a slow and steady process over some time.
Constant Tiredness
If someone is suffering from being constantly tired it may well mean that their lymphatic system is not working as well as it might. When our lymphatic system becomes sluggish our general energy level will drop.
Frequent Infections
If you suffer from frequent infections it indicates that your lymphatic system may be struggling. MLD will serve to stimulate the lymphatic system and increase your ability to fight infection. If the system is not working effectively this will not happen.
Migraines & Headaches
MLD and massage can both be helpful in the treatment of migraines and headaches. Some of the causes of headaches can be muscle tension around the neck and shoulders, but there can also be much congestion in the face and head area. Massage will serve to relax and ease out the muscles and MLD to reduce the congestion. I have successfully used both treatments in the treatment of headaches and migraine.