Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a highly specialised type of massage, using light, pumping, circling, scooping and turning movement of the skin to transport excess fluid (waste product) out of the body if it’s congested.
Normally the body can break down the metabolic products on its own, but stress, unhealthy eating, lack of movement or injury can inhibit this process.
The treatment is calming and relaxing. It is safe on the most sensitive skin as oils are not used. It is also pain-free.
Mainly MLD is used to reduce swelling …
- after knee or hip surgery
- trauma
- cancer treatment
- other procedures where tissue water has developed resulting in swollen ankles, sinusitis, lymphedema etc.
The good flow of the lymph system relies on a good diet and plenty of water plus exercise e.g. brisk walking, swimming or cycling as it’s activated via the muscle pump.
MLD was developed in the 1930’s by Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife. They worked on the French Riviera with English patients suffering from chronic colds. It is now recognised and used worldwide.
Written by Gabriele Piontek, who has been with Sarum Physio since 2009 and works closely with the physiotherapy team.
Gabriele’s medical training in all areas of massage therapy was undertaken at the school of Dr Muschinsky. She trained in Manual Lymphatic Drainage following the principles set by Dr. Vodder in Germany, gaining her experience as a therapist in a German hospital where she worked for 25 years.
Gaby, is a huge asset to the Sarum team, working closely with the physios, she can reduce swelling that allows the physios to work more effectively on injuries or problem areas.
