Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage has become a bit of a buzzword in the last few years. While Europe has understood and experienced the benefits of this modality for decades, it’s still relatively unknown to patients in the United States. The extensive research of this lesser known modality of care has gained a lot of traction in the past decade and more and more people are incorporating it into their regular self care.

Which conditions/individuals benefit from MLD?

-All kinds of surgery (pre and post op)

-Autoimmune diseases

-Migraines/headaches/sinus issues

-Acne, eczema

-Pregnancy

-Athletes

-Sedentary individuals

-Edema, swelling

What is the lymphatic system?

If you have a body, you have a lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system is a half open system of transportation that filters fluids and dumps it back into the circulatory system. It detoxifies the body by removing cellular waste, balances fluids and supports immune system function (by producing lymphocytes).

Your lymphatic system consists of lymph capillaries & vessels and lymph nodes that spread throughout every organ in your body (including your brain and your gut!) like tree branches. The vessels are delicate and about the diameter of a strand of hair. Your body moves lymph fluid on its own through muscular contraction. When lymphatic flow is interrupted it creates swelling, pain and/or infection.

What is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)?

While lymphatic drainage is a manual therapy, it is technically not massage. Therapeutic massage is typically focused on working the muscular system and involves a degree of pressure. MLD is a light, gentle technique solely focused on working the lymphatic structures. As an added bonus, most people find it incredibly relaxing.

The purpose of MLD is to improve the flow of lymphatic fluid. One session can temporarily speed up the flow of your lymph by 10 times! The idea is to get things flowing so the body can flush out the bad stuff and transport more good stuff.

I’m excited to incorporate MLD into our list of services at Calvert Rejuvenations in Herndon, VA. I know it will help so many of you in your health and wellness journey.

In Gratitude,

Emily Davis, LMT, C-MLD, C-IAYT