Manual Lymphatic Drainage improves the function of your lymphatic system.  Improving the function, therefore, promotes good circulation of lymph helping to drain fluid from cells, eliminate waste and improve the production and distribution of antibodies and lymphocytes ( a type of white blood cells). In turn, your immune system is more effective. MLD also improves digestion, and detoxification of your skin, organs and tissues. It is an effective way to stimulate your immune system and help to manage stress and tension, sinusitis and oedema.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage ( MLD ) is a technique initially developed in the 1930’s by Dr Emil and Dr Estrid  Vodder initially working in Cannes, France, and later establishing an institute in Austria. MLD is a very gentle, relaxing rhythmic massage stimulating the function of the lymphatic system, the body’s secondary circulating system. The pressure is gentle and light due to the lymphatic vessels being superficially present underneath the skin. 80% of all lymphatic vessels are found in the first 3-5mm of your skin.

Your lymphatic system is made up of many vessels, capillaries, ducts and nodes. Lymph fluid is clear and originates in the body’s tissue and travels through the lymphatic vessels and deposits foreign matter, bacteria, viruses and damaged cells at the lymph nodes to be filtered. This begins any necessary immune reactions. If your lymph nodes are not functioning correctly due to stress, tension, anxiety or they have been damaged or removed, this can cause an excess build up of fluid and create a sluggish lymphatic system. Side effects of a sluggish lymphatic system can include poor digestion, congestion of the skin and cells ( acne, pimples, cellulite), oedema –particularly post operative cancer, tiredness and immune problems.

When a lymph node or vessel is blocked the normal function of lymph movement is impaired. This impairment causes an unusual collection of lymph fluid building up, creating swelling / oedema. Swelling / oedema can be caused by many conditions, for example: postoperative swelling or an impact accident. Lymphoedema is when the swelling is in the lymph system.  Surgery for the treatment of cancer, chemotherapy and radiation treatment can be major factors in the onset of lymphoedema. During cancer related operations  cancer cells and, at times, corresponding lymph nodes are removed, creating fewer nodes to process the same amount of lymph fluid in the body. This can create a build-up of fluid that is usually described as making the affected area feel bloated, heavy and full.