The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is made up of a vast network of capillaries, designed to transport a particular fluid (lymph) around the body. This fluid consists of water, plasma proteins, foreign substances i.e. ink, dust, bacteria and other waste products. The body’s antibodies are also carried in the lymph fluid. The Lymphatic System helps to clear protein, water and waste from the body’s tissues and to distribute antibodies to areas where they are needed to fight infection. The rate of circulation of lymph is three times greater than that of blood.
Sometimes fluid can accumulate in tissues due to the absence, damage or obstruction of the lymphatic system. When the fluid builds to the point where it becomes too much for the lymphatics to drain it away, then oedema (swelling) occurs. It is a similar case to that of a river which has been dammed - water builds up behind the dam, overflows the banks of the river and if the ground does not drain properly it becomes waterlogged.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
During the early 1930's Dr. Emil Vodder created a unique range of movements which brought relief from chronic conditions such as sinus congestion and catarrh. These techniques have since become known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (M.L.D.). Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle massage technique that uses a range of rhythmic actions to move the skin of the body in the direction of flow of the lymphatic system, helping to remove blockages and encourages the free flow of lymph fluid.
Since Vodder's pioneering work M.L.D. has become a popular treatment in many European hospitals and clinics. It is now also beginning to gain acceptance in the UK, but despite its importance few practitioners in this country are trained to treat the lymphatic system effectively.
The benefits of M.L.D.
M.L.D. can be particularly helpful for the following conditions:
- Fatigue
- Detoxing
- Headaches
- Digestive problems
- Sinus disorders
- Arthritis
- Acne and other skin conditions
- Fluid congestion, including puffy ankles and legs, in pregnancy and otherwise
- PMT, Breast tenderness, lumps or swelling
- Cellulite and localised weight problems
- Healing of wounds, fractures, torn ligaments or sprains
- Pre and post surgery
- Improving the appearance of scars, burns or stretch marks
- Edema
- Lymphoedema
What happens in a treatment?
A Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatment is similar to having a massage. You will be asked to lie down on a couch in a warm relaxing environment. As with regular massage, you will be covered by towels and only the parts being treated will be exposed.
The first visit also includes a consultation, during which I will recommend a number and the frequency of future sessions. Where appropriate I will work in conjunction with your medical practitioner.
To book a treatment
Each session lasts approximately one hour. I really like incorporate this treatment a colonic hydrotherapy treatment cost is £.
If you would like to contact me to make an appointment or to find out more about the treatments I offer, please click here.
