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What is Manual Lymph Drainage?

Manual Lymph Drainage was developed by the Danish physical therapists Doctors Emil and Estrid Vodder, in the 1930's. This technique developed as a result of their studies on the lymph vessel system. Manual Lymph Drainage is a series of light, rhythmic manipulations that stimulate lymph flow and fluid movement.

How does Manual Lymph Drainage work?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a light, rhythmical massage in which the practitioner uses a range of specialized and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the skin in the direction of the lymph flow. This rhythmical massage stimulates the lymphatic vessels. The lymphatic vessels in our body play a key role in delivering nutrients, antibodies and other immune constituents to the tissue cells of the body and remove toxins, cell waste and dead particles. When the lymphatic vessels are not functioning at their optimum due to blockages, the body's immunity drops, and it is susceptible to a number of ailments such as allergies, headaches, sinusitis, low energy and frequent infections.

Manual Lymph Drainage helps in removing these blockages and restores the lymphatic system to its normal state. It also works on the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and improves sleeping patterns.

A typical session of Manual Lymph Drainage lasts for approximately one to one and a half hours. During the first consultation the therapist will assess the patient's condition and recommend the number and frequency of future sessions. Manual Lymph Drainage can also be used in conjunction with more traditional forms of medicine to provide faster relief. Most patients who have undergone this therapy have found the experience to be very relaxing with little or no discomfort.

Benefits of Manual Lymph Drainage?

Manual Lymph Drainage is both a preventive and a remedial treatment. It provides a major boost to the immune system. It has been proven to be very effective in the treatment of conditions such as oedema, sinus congestion, abdominal bloating, migraine headaches and rheumatoid arthritis. It also promotes the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains and lessens pain. Manual Lymph Drainage is also used in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, to heal wounds and burns, and to reduce scars and stretch marks. It has a profoundly relaxing effect on the nervous system and is a great stress buster.

Manual Lymph Drainage is used in combination with other therapies for the treatment of primary and secondary Lymphedema. It is very effective in the treatment of swellings brought about as a result of problems in the circulatory system.