Lymphatic massage
Usually, when people hear about Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage they think it's only for individuals who have lymphedema. While its reputation as a form of medical massage therapy isn't undeserved, Lymphatic Drainage has recently become a technique of choice among a variety of massage lovers due to its many benefits.
Why get a lymphatic drainage massage?
Today, men and women incorporate lymphatic drainage massage into their skincare and wellness routines given its detoxification and esthetic benefits. MLD proponents say the massage technique is effective for pain relief, digestive problems, hormonal imbalances, skin conditions (such as acne and rosacea), cellulite, allergies, headaches and a long list of other issues. It's also being used following cosmetic surgery to reduce swelling and flush byproducts of anesthesia out of the body. MLD has become a popular spa treatment for skin care, managing season allergies, detoxification, jet lag, general stress reduction, and there is even a specific type of MLD devoted to facial rejuvenation, helps with volume reduction around arms, thighs, abdomen,buttocks and waist. You can improve the lymfatic massage performed for weight loss with an cinnamon wrap.
Is manual lymphatic drainage right for me?
You may be wondering whether MLD is right for you, and why you would choose lymph drainage over a more traditional massage. Of course, conventional massage like a Swedish massage or deep tissue massage is a supreme experience for your muscles, joints, nervous system, and attitude. Deciding to receive a lymphatic drainage massage goes a step further. You may want to cleanse your body's tissues during the change of seasons, after an illness or injury, or following a particularly stressful time in your life. MLD's focus on detox and purification revitalizes your energy, leaving you feeling ready to face anything.
How often?
For best results and to see the effect, it is recommended that you have a lymphatic massage at least twice a week, but at least once a week. The recommended number for lymphatic massages is ten visits. This should be followed by a maintenance treatment once a month.
What is manual lymphatic drainage massage?
MLD is a specialized massage type that gently assists the lymphatic system in maintaining the body's fluid balance, blood circulation, and immune mechanisms. The system's network of vessels and nodes contains lymph, a mixture of water, proteins, immune system components, waste products, and other remnants of cell metabolism. Lymph nodes, which filter out the debris, are found throughout the body, with especially large groups of them in the neck, armpits, and groin. These major collections of lymph nodes ensure that the lymph passes through as many nodes as possible before it returns to the circulatory system.
During a lymph drainage massage, a specially-trained massage therapist uses a series of gliding, compressing, stretching, and cupping motions over the client's body. The light rhythmic movements, applied without massage oil, stimulate the lymphatic system without compressing the vessels - allowing lymph to move easily through the tissues and lymph nodes. The pressure being no more that weight of a nickel. Too much pressure could regress or damage the lymph capillaries. Prepare to feel VERY relaxed and perhaps a bit flushed! MLD follows a specific sequence over the body so lymph isn't trapped anywhere, making sure every area is treated with care.
The history of lymphatic drainage massage
MLD originated in the 1930s when the Danish husband and wife team of Emil and Estrid Vodder developed the strokes and sequence of what they called Lymphology. It caught on quickly in France and became a recommended treatment in the medical community for lymphedema resulting from chemotherapy and radiation for cancer. There are numerous studies and articles documenting its effectiveness.
As MLD became more well-known, offshoots and modifications of the original Vodder technique were developed, providing clients with more options. In the 1970s, German professors Michael and Etelka Foeldi built a clinic to treat patients and educate therapists. At his Arizona school for Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT), French physician Bruno Chikly expanded the techniques to address more than the lymphatic system.
Contraindications to massage:
- thyroid hyperfunction
- cancer
- acute viral disease
- acute bacterial infections
- elevated temperature
- risky pregnancy
- acute venous
- problems heart disease
- high blood pressure
- vascular disease
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- diabetes
- glaucoma
- asthma
People suffering from these diseases must first consult their doctor if lymphatic massage is suitable for them.