Manual lymph drainage (MLD) uses specific light strokes repetitively to encourage movement of the lymph through the body. Despite its scary name, it is a very pleasant, relaxing treatment, which also has physical benefits to the body. The lymphatics work continually throughout the body to remove fluid along with metabolites and toxins (including viruses and bacteria) from the body tissue. For this reason MLD can be used to help reduce fluid in the body, and reduce build up of toxins. It can be useful for treating a number of inflammatory conditions.
What to Expect During a Session
The initial session will always start with a consultation period to enable the practitioner to plan the treatment. MLD uses light hand movements to repetitively stretch the skin, for this reason the therapist will ask you to remove clothing from the area being treated before relaxing on a massage plinth. No oils are used.
Many MLD treatments are performed purely on the front of the body, and can be performed in a half sitting position with cushions to help with comfort, therefore there it can be performed at any stage of pregnancy.
MLD During Conception
MLD is often recommended as part of a regime to gain optimal health during the time of conception (including fertility treatment). It is most often used as a relaxing technique to support a simple detox regime, but it can also be used to help control some of the symptoms in conditions that cause swelling (oedema), including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
MLD During Pregnancy
MLD is safe to have at any point during pregnancy. Treatments may be as part of ongoing treatment for long term conditions such as lymphoedema or lipoedema, or they may be to treat swelling occurring throughout the body due to pregnancy (as long as serious causes have been ruled out by the doctor or midwife). The final few months can be made more comfortable by reducing leg heaviness, or treating carpal tunnel syndrome. MLD is also useful in the treatment of inflammation, and therefore pain.
MLD After the Birth
MLD may be performed after birth for the same reasons listed above, especially swollen legs that have not resolved after the birth. But the most common reason that someone attends within the first few weeks or months is because of breast problems. Mothers with blocked milk ducts, recurrent mastitis (between infections) and general breast discomfort have felt real improvement with treatments. This may be a one off treatment or a course depending on the cause and seriousness of the problem.
MLD is practised, at Woodland Herbs in Glasgow, by Anna Hill.
The British Lymphology Society recommend, as accepted by MLDUK, training from Vodder, Földi, Leduc, Casley-Smith. Ensure your therapist is qualified from one of these schools.