Manual Lymphatic Drainage

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a type of massage based on the hypothesis that it will encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. The lymph system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then to the lymph ducts, which return lymph to the cardiovascular system. Manual lymph drainage uses a specific amount of pressure, and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow.

What are the benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

 There are many potential benefits associated with MLD massage. This type of massage has been shown to reduce edema and pain in the area treated as well as improve the clearance of metabolic waste products from the tissues. Additionally, MLD has been shown to reduce the build-up of scar tissue resulting from injury and inflammation.

What is the lymphatic system?

Your lymphatic system (part of your immune system) is a network of organs (vessels and nodes) that moves back a fluid called lymph into your bloodstream. The lymphatic system has many functions, some of them are: 

• Protects your body from illness-causing invaders.
• Maintains body fluid levels.
• Absorbs digestive tract fats. 
• Removes cellular waste.