Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
MLD is a massage technique developed by Danish physical therapists Dr Emil Vodder and his wife Estrid in the 1930s. They identified the importance of the lymphatic system and devised treatments for the whole body to alleviate swelling and congestion. Hildegard Wittlinger from the Dr Vodder School in Austria and her team have continued to develop and refine his system.
MLD is a specialised massage technique, utilising precise, light, rhythmical hand movements which gently stretch the skin in circular motions along the lymphatic pathways. This pumping movement stimulates flow in the lymph vessels and encourages the uptake of fluid from the tissues into the lymphatic system. The fluid drains through the lymph nodes where it is filtered and cleansed of dead cells, bacteria and other waste products before being returned to the blood stream.
MLD has been used to treat the following conditions:
- facial problems, tired, puffy eyes, acne, and chronic sinus congestion
- bruising and swelling following surgery or injury
- to promote healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains, wounds and burns and improve the appearance of old scars
- lymphoedema – extremely effective in the treatment and control of this condition
- to promote relaxation and well being
Lymphoedema
This is swelling caused by a build up of lymph fluid in the tissues. It can affect any area of the body, but most commonly develops in the arms or legs. Following treatment for breast cancer, lymphoedema may occur as a result of damage to the lymphatic system (either removal of lymph nodes or from the effects of radiotherapy) around the armpit (axilla) and surrounding area. The condition may manifest soon after treatment or may occur many years later. The removal and damage to lymph nodes and vessels reduces the lymphatic drainage routes.
Lymphoedema is a long term condition and is unlikely to ever resolve fully. Treatment is aimed at encouraging the lymph to drain away to healthy tissue and is based on
- skin care
- special exercises
- compression garments or bandages
- MLD
- simple lymph drainage massage techniques
MLD Treatment for Lymphoedema
During the first session a full medical history is taken and the condition is assessed before a treatment plan is put together and agreed with the client. 
It is recommended that several treatments are done very close together with bandaging to drastically reduce limb volume and improve the shape of the limb. Thereafter maintenance treatments are recommended with compression garments.
A home maintenance programme is given to each patient.
During a treatment only some clothing needs to be removed and the massage is carried out in a warm, safe environment.