Techniques & Services

Manual Lympatic Drainage (MLD)

What is MLD?

MLD uses a combination of gentle, light, skin stretching massage, deeper lymph node activation & deep breathing techniques known as diaphragmatic breathing. Which is used to help promote the movement of stagnant lymphatic fluid within the body’s tissue. With a combination of these techniques we are able to clear blocked lympathic pathways, reducing swelling caused by Lymphedema, surgery or illness.

Lymphedema happens when your your tissues retain fluid after your heart sends blood to your tissues & organs. Normally your lymphatic system collects the leftover fluid (lymph) & returns it to your heart. However, when the lymphatic system is disrupted, the lymph fluid collects in body’s tissue causing swelling.

Benefits associated with MLD?

• Post surgery – Reduce swelling post surgery. Often used post breast cancer surgery.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – Arthritis in the joints causing joint pain & swelling.
• Fibromyaglia – Chronic muscle & joint pain.
• Chronic venus insufficiency – When lower limb veins are not working efficiently making it harder for blood to return to the heart.
• Lipedema – Accumulation of excess fat around the body blocking lymphatic pathways & causing lympedema.

Risks associated with MLD?

Generally MLD is a safe treatment. However, there are some conditions & circumstances where MLD is not recommended.

• If you have a heart condition
• Suffering from renal failure
• Have blood clots
• Currently have an infection
• Cellulitis

We can also boost our lymphatic system function with the following methods

• Drinking plenty of water
• Engaging in physical activity
• Eating vegetables & fruits
• Limiting processed foods
• Deep breathing techniques – Diaphragmatic breathing