MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage)

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone (especially Joanne who asked about this )

MLD is a widely practised method of massage, which is used to reduce

swelling in the body. I am not a registered massage therapist, but

my best friend is. Lucky for me! Anyway, this is what she says:

The vascular system only manages 80% of the body's fluids as blood.

The rest is managed and cleaned by the lymphatic system. Lymphatic

fluid is held in the lymph cells, which are found at the the skin

level. All of the Lymph drains into the heart.

So, because it is at the skin level, the massage must be very light.

The therapist will use such a light touch that the muscles are not

at all affected. This makes it very safe (and common) for use after

injury or surgery.

The only caution is that there are some conditions where MLD is

contraindicated. Problems with the heart, kidney, and liver can be

comprimised by MLD because the massage physically forces a faster

drainage and clearance through these organ systems.

MLD for the face and neck is done starting by opening the drains in

the neck, followede by moving up the face and lightly coaxing the

fluid towards the drainage points (above your clavical). MLD for

swelling below the heart is done similarly only the direction is up

(towards the heart).

I have had a lot of success with this surgery, I think, partly

because of MLD. I have very little swelling and bruising today,

which is day 8. MLD is a technique that all RMT's and

physiotherapists are trained to do. Some even specialize in it.

Also, it is likely that someone at the hospital will know how to do

it. Check first and make sure thay are qualified.

One last thing is that MLD is a program. Doing it once will help for

that day, but, you need to keep doing it until the tissues begin to

heal. Ice is still a must do.

Good luck everyone, and sorry for the novel

Fay