Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Applied MLD - Dr Vodder Method

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Manual Lymph Drainage for Lymphoedema and Swelling

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) Dr Vodder Method, is an advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a unique range of movements. It was developed and studied by Dr Emil Vodder in the 1930s. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is defined as a precise, gentle and rhythmic pumping massage technique that enhances lymphatic fluid movement to assist in cleansing the body (including skin, muscles, organ tissues and blood) of toxins, metabolic wastes, excess water, bacteria, and inflammatory materials. The Lymphatic System is our body’s main waste management transport system. It silently cleans up the “mess” left behind by nearly all bodily systems. Long-term stress, injury, surgery, prolonged exposure to illness, toxins, pollutants, alcohol, drugs (including prescriptions), sedentary lifestyles, improper diet, and poor health habits in general, can lead to sluggish or stagnant lymph fluid. Once this occurs, the system can no longer work efficiently. Effects of this may include feeling more fatigued/less energy, “foggy” headed, lowered immune response, slower healing/recovery, and increased pain. Lymph fluid can only be moved with exercise, deep breathing and manually moving or “pumping” it.

About the Sessions:

A typical session lasts between 40-60 minutes, during which time the whole body is treated. Additional time may be required if bandaging is involved or compression garment measuring is needed. It is best to NOT use perfumes, fragrant soaps, deodorant, or lotion prior to session.

It is very important to be well hydrated prior to and after the session. Water is required to move lymph fluid throughout the body and all its systems.

Lymph fluid can continue to move at an accelerated pace for 24 to 48 hours after each session.

For optimal benefits, it is recommended to receive 1-5 sessions in succession. The number of sessions is dependent on the purpose of treatment and degree of congestion.

For clients with Primary or Secondary Lymphedema:

A very important target group and common indication for Manual Lymph Drainage are clients with Primary and/or Secondary Lymphedema. The treatment and care of patients with this condition is very complex and often needs more than just Manual Lymph Drainage; Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is essential for Lymphoedema.

Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) includes:

• Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

• Compression Bandaging

• Properly Fitted Compression Garments (will be measured and supplied by the therapist)

• MTC Kinesiology Lymph Taping

• Exercise

• Skin Care

If you'd like to know more about the complex therapy, CDT, do not hesitate to contact me for detailed information and/or a free consultation over the phone to discuss and advice you on your personal situation and treatment plan.

Indications for MLD:

• Pre & Post surgical procedures

• Post cancer treatments (e.g.Mastectomy)

• Lipoedema

• Edema, swelling, puffiness (can occur in pregnancy)

• Inflammatory conditions

• Autoimmune disease

• Arthritis

• Headaches, Migraines

• Allergies, Sinus issues,

• Bronchitis

• Burns, scars, Adhesions

• Injuries, fractures

• Chronic Pain

• Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue

• Detoxification, full body cleanse

• Acne, Eczema, other skin conditions

• Substance abuse detoxification

• Natural Facelift

• Aids with HCG diet

• Assists in laser assisted weight loss procedures

 Applied MLD works for many conditions and replaces Massage Therapy

Are you exhausted and in need of a relaxing treatment, have a muscular-skeletal or any other concerning health issue?

Applied MLD is based on the Dr Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage including Special Techniques used in the treatment of multiple pathologies where the lymph system remains intact. It can be very effective for many health conditions that traditionally treated with massage therapy but has the advantage that it is completely pain free.

Pathologies covered include, but are not limited to:

• Bursitis, capsulitis and tendonitis in any joint

• Whiplash and fracture injuries

• Traumatic injury

• Post-surgical oedema

• Sporting injuries and trigger points

• Chronic pain including CRPS

• Trigeminal neuralgia

• Fibromyalgia

• Dermatological problems such as psoriasis

• Respiratory conditions

• Post-COVID syndrome

• Post liposuction and other cosmetic surgeries

• Chronic inflammation

• Autoimmune conditions

• Sinusitis

• Migraine