Manual Lymphatic Drainage… Can I benefit?
The short answer to this question is that most people can benefit from Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD). MLD It’s a very gentle massage that helps to promote relaxation, immune function and reduce edema (buildup of fluid) in the body. It has a calming effect to the nervous system due to the repetitive rhythmic sequence. MLD also has an analgesic effect so it’s great for aiding in pain reduction.
If you’re looking for a deep tissue “hurt so good” type of massage, this is not it. The fine movements that are performed in MLD are very light. It’s a non-invasive treatment so as a patient, you may ask yourself, “Is my therapist actually doing anything?”. The answer is yes, your therapist is working those lymph vessels like nobody’s business! The lymph vessels are very close to the surface of your skin so in order to effect the lymph vessels and promote proper drainage, your therapist must use light pressure. If your therapist uses deep pressure, they will just compress the vessel altogether. This will then block the flow of lymph fluid, and that’s just defeating the purpose of lymph drainage.
I have personally worked with patients who have benefitted from MLD treatments to help with chronic migraines, chronic sinusitis, breast fullness/tenderness, post op knee replacements, sciatic/nerve pain, patients who have developed lymphedema from breast cancer treatments/surgery, and for overall general wellness. It’s amazing how such fine touch and movements can make such an improvements in one’s body.
If you have any of the following conditions, you may benefit from Manual Lymph Drainage.
- Lymphedema
- Migraines
- Chronic Sinusitis
- Recent surgery – knee/hip/ankle replacement, breast reconstruction/mastectomy, etc.
- Tinnitus
- Meniere’s Syndrome
- Whiplash
- Shoulder pathologies
- Recovery from fractures
- Arthritis
- Stroke
- Multiple Sclerosis
To understand a bit more about what the lymphatic system is, click here.
If you have any questions about if MLD is suitable for you and your condition, do not hesitate to contact us at info@alphahealthservices.ca or 416 545 1881.
By Karen Kingsley
ALPHA Health Services
Registered Massage Therapist, and MLD Therapist