What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle and non-invasive form of massage therapy that can help alleviate swelling and fluid retention in the body. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in our immune system, helping to remove waste and toxins from the body. However, when this system becomes blocked due to medical treatment or illness, it can lead to uncomfortable swelling and inflammation.
During a lymphatic drainage massage, the therapist uses light pressure and rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymphatic vessels and encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid. This can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation, while also promoting relaxation and stress relief. The massage is typically performed on specific areas of the body, such as the arms, legs, or abdomen, depending on where the swelling is located.
While lymphatic drainage massage is generally considered safe, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing any new treatments. It is also important to note that the massage may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or who are currently undergoing cancer treatment. Overall, lymphatic drainage massage can be a helpful tool in managing swelling and promoting overall wellness.
What are the Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
The lymphatic system is crucial for the body's immunity. Lymph fluid flows through vessels and white blood cells capture harmful particles as it passes through nodes. When lymph fluid accumulates, it can lead to swelling, known as lymphedema.
According to various studies, individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic venous insufficiency, and fibromyalgia can greatly benefit from lymphatic drainage massage. This therapeutic massage technique can significantly alleviate symptoms like tissue swelling, pain, and skin discoloration. So, if you're experiencing any of these ailments, a lymphatic drainage massage may be a viable solution.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is responsible for collecting and returning lymph, a fluid that has leaked from blood vessels to the bloodstream through the lymph nodes.
The main roles of the lymphatic system include:
- Keeps body fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.
- Protects your body against foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that may enter your body.
- Transports and removes waste products and abnormal cells from the lymph.
- Improvement and support of the immune system.
- Absorption of dietary fats from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream for metabolism or storage
The lymphatic system contains lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus housing lymphocytes, which can multiply and release antibodies in response to various stimuli, including bacteria, viruses, dead or dying cells, and abnormal cells like cancer.
There is three times as much lymph fluid in the human body as blood. If you placed all the lymph vessels in one body end-to-end, it would cover a distance in excess of 100,000 miles.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Service Provider
Meet Harmony Derby | LMT
Harmony specializes in Swedish Massage, Pink Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, Reflexology, and Trigger Point, and is certified in MLD (manual lymphatic drainage), and in Oncology Massage. Harmony has a great understanding of human anatomy and physiology and believes that massage is just as beneficial to the client's mental health as it is to their physical health.