What is MLD?
MLD is a gentle, rhythmic massage that stimulates the lymph nodes and lymph vessels. The slow, rhythmic strokes gently stretch the skin and connective tissue creating a gentle pumping action that increases lymphatic flow.
Who Can Benefit from Receiving MLD?
Everyone can benefit from receiving MLD to promote general relaxation and for cleansing (detoxification), but it is often sought by pre and post-surgical patients, as well as those with lymphedema or those at risk for developing lymphedema.
How Does MLD Work?
The lymphatic system is composed of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and organs. Our lymph nodes act as a filtration system and remove microorganisms and other foreign substances. Stimulating the lymphatic system through manual lymphatic drainage will activate all of the lymph nodes, vessels and organs, as well as encourage fluid circulation and cell regeneration. All of this works together to promote detoxification, facilitate healing and support the immune system.
MLD for Pre and Post-Op Patients
MLD is an ideal form of therapy for most pre- and post-operative recoveries (with physician approval). It promotes detoxification, reduces fluid retention and edemas, accelerates healing and minimizes pain, bruising and scarring. Further, the light pressure and rhythmic flow of the procedure are very calming.
Pre-Op
MLD treatments – one to two – are recommended prior to surgery; ideally the week before surgery. The increase in lymphatic flow facilitates reabsorbing of excess protein, cellular debris and waste that may have accumulated in the interstitial spaces of your skin. MLD increases blood flow, promotes detoxification, facilitates healing and supports the immune system.
Post-Op
Two-to-three treatments are recommended post-op, which can start 24-hours after surgery (with physician approval). Trauma (surgery) can depress the function of the lymphatic system. As such, MLD is used to stimulate temporary rerouting of lymph to functional vessels and nodes to reduce swelling. The work achieves a wide variety of benefits, but the most significant in post-op situations is the reduction of pain, bruising and edema.
Lymphedema or Those at Risk
The overall goal of MLD in the treatment of lymphedema is to re-route the flow of stagnated lymphatic fluid around blocked areas into more centrally located, healthy lymphatic vessels.
