Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a manual, rhythmic, gentle, repetitive technique using movements that encourage the lymph system to work more efficiently.
First time session includes consultation
(up to 90 minutes) ... $130
60 minute massage … $105
75 minute massage … $120
90 minute massage … $140
There are a couple of things that MLD is not:
- MLD is not massage therapy
- MLD is not painful, deep or rigorous
In fact it is so relaxing for your nervous system that many people fall asleep.
This technique helps:
- detoxify your tissues and the entire lymphatic system
- reduces pain
- reducing swelling
- speeds healing
- minimizes scars
- aids in deep relaxation and stress relief
This technique is very light, the pressure is ‘the weight of a nickel’. In fact it may feel as if I am doing nothing! It is slow, repetitious, and did I say light? It is soothing and meditative in its rhythmic movements as it encourages your lymphatic system to work more efficiently.
I am literally mimicking the movement of the lymphatic vessels. It stimulates the lymphatic system to increase lymph flow as well as redirecting the flow around any damaged vessels or nodes.
Lots of things cause this system to be sluggish such as surgery, genetic malformation, allergies, radiation, chemotherapy, colds, the flu, certain parasites and inflammation.
Reasons to receive MLD? It’s not just for Lymphedema…
- breast cancer surgery recovery
- edema and fluid retention
- Lymphedema
- cosmetic surgery recovery
- liposuction recovery
- scar and burn healing
- headaches
- sinus issues and allergies
- diabetic and cancer related peripheral neuropathy
- fibromyalgia
- rheumatoid arthritis and so much more
In fact I treated a young woman with cystic acne and she was able to half her dosage of medication after a month of biweekly sessions (with her doctor’s ok).
What Is A Manual Lymph Drainage Session Like?
The one word for an MLD session is “relaxing”. The lymph vessels are often just below the skin, so we use a very light pressure (about the weight of a nickel) and short, rhythmic, repetitive movements.
3 words to describe MLD- relaxing, relaxing, relaxing!
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is an accumulation of fluid in tissues causing swelling, occurring most commonly in arms or legs, abdomen, breast, head and neck. It can occur from a congenital malformation or the result of surgery, radiation, infection or damage to the lymph system. Risk of lymphedema is due to trauma to lymph vessels that are either damaged or missing or when lymph nodes have been damaged, removed or radiated. When the drainage pathways of the lymph fluid is impaired, it can get congested and collect in the tissues and cause swelling. If left untreated, the protein-rich lymph fluid increases and causes more swelling, the skin begins to break down causing poor wound healing, risk of infection (celulitus) and a hardening of the area may occur.
This can occur days, weeks, or many years after the original insult. Lymphedema is a life long condition which requires you to do long term management.
What does lymphedema feel like?
Your skin may feel tight.
You may notice that your jewelry or clothes such as rings, necklaces, socks, shoes or watches seem tighter. A full or heavy sensation in limbs or area of the body. Some people may experience pain or achiness.
If you notice persistent swelling, seek medical advice immediately.
What should you do if you see or feel swelling?
Better to get an early diagnosis, it greatly improves the prognosis and your general condition. Remember to get a second opinion as many doctors are not familiar with Lymphedema.
Stages of Lymphedema
Latency Stage – no swelling, excess fluid begins to build up; “normal” tissue consistency
Stage I – tissue is soft and pitting, no secondary changes; elevation reduces swelling
Stage II – hardening of the tissue; difficult to achieve pitting; frequent infections
Stage III – extreme increase in fluid buildup and hardening of tissue with typical skin changes
What is the treatment for Lymphedema?
The gold standard for addressing Lymphedema is Dr. Vodder’s Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). This is a 4 part therapy:
- Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
- Compression Bandaging
- Skin and Wound care
- Exercises
You may need all or part of this treatment depending on the nature of your condition.