Lymphatic System
Our lymphatic system is made up of a network of pathways throughout the body which transport fluid from the tissues, through your lymph nodes, back to the bloodstream.
The three main functions of the lymphatic system are:
Immune system - The primary role of the lymphatic system is to protect the body by carrying antigens and lymphocytes (type of white blood cell) to sites of infection. It also removes protein and waste from the tissue that cannot be absorbed through blood capillary vessels.
Fluid balance - collects excess fluid that has leaked from the capillaries into connective tissue spaces and returns it to the bloodstream. This helps maintain healthy fluid levels in the body.
Fat absorption - helps the body absorb fats and vitamins from the digestive system and transport them to the bloodstream.
At certain points called nodes, the lymph is cleaned. Nodes are found in the groin, underarm and neck, in the vein angle formed by the jugular and sub clavicular veins, the main point for draining our body of toxins and liquids.
The lymphatic system is not connected to a dedicated pump, like the heart and circulatory system, and its movement and elimination is normally created by muscle contraction, intestinal movements, respiration, and body pressure.
Reduces Swelling and Edema: One of the main benefits of MLD is its ability to reduce swelling and edema, often seen after surgeries, injuries, or even due to conditions like pregnancy. By stimulating the lymphatic flow, MLD helps the body remove excess fluid and waste products.
Boosts Immune Function: The lymphatic system is crucial for the immune system, as it helps filter and remove toxins and pathogens. MLD can improve lymphatic flow, potentially enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and promoting overall immune health.
Detoxification: MLD encourages the body to eliminate waste and toxins through the lymphatic system, contributing to overall detoxification. By improving circulation, MLD can support the body in removing metabolic waste and reducing the burden on organs like the liver and kidneys.
Relieves Tension and Stress: The gentle, rhythmic techniques used in MLD promote relaxation and can help reduce stress and anxiety. The soothing nature of the massage encourages the parasympathetic nervous system to activate, leading to a deep sense of relaxation and calm.
Improves Skin Health: MLD is often used to improve the appearance and health of the skin. It can help with conditions like acne, rosacea, and puffiness, as it promotes better fluid drainage and can reduce inflammation, contributing to healthier, clearer skin.
Supports Post-Surgery Recovery: After surgeries, especially those involving the lymphatic system (e.g., breast cancer surgery or liposuction), MLD can help speed up recovery by reducing swelling, preventing the formation of scar tissue, and promoting healing by improving blood circulation.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage offers several health and wellness benefits. This technique is designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in the body’s immune function and fluid balance. Here are some of the key reasons why people seek MLD
Improves Lymphatic Circulation: MLD promotes the movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels, which can help with fluid retention, swelling, and detoxification. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from lymphedema, a condition that causes excess fluid to accumulate in the tissues.
Post Surgery/Injury Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Any surgical intervention or injury involves damage to tissue, and the tissues natural response to damage is swelling. This swelling can lead to pain.
A lymphatic drainage massage post-surgery or soon after an injury can help with pain reduction, reduce swelling and bruising, increase the removal of cellular debris and other waste from the area and reduce local inflammation.
It also helps to prevents scar tissue from contracting or extending, which if not addressed may go on to restrict motion or produce feelings of tightness.
Any surgery or injury that has swelling can be helped with a lymphatic massage.
If you have unexplained or abnormal swelling following surgery or injury, please consult your surgeon or doctor to make sure it is all fine.
Health and Wellness Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Manual lymphatic drainage is a slow, rhythmical treatment which makes it relaxing and therapeutic at the same time.
Some conditions that it can help with:
pre and post-surgery (including auxiliary lymph node dissection &; sentinel lymph node biopsy)
allergies
hay fever
fluid retention
sinus Headache/Sinusitis
stress
chronic Fatigue
fibromyalgia
pregnancy oedema
traumatic injuries
TMJ
bowel issues such as constipation
headaches or migraines
circulation problems
management of swelling in the legs from vein removal
