What is a manual lymphatic drainage massage?
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MLD is a specialized massage type that gently assists the lymphatic system in maintaining the body’s fluid balance, blood circulation, and immune mechanisms. The system’s network of vessels and nodes contains lymph, a mixture of water, proteins, immune system components, waste products, and other remnants of cell metabolism. Lymph nodes, which filter out the debris, are found throughout the body, with especially large groups of them in the neck, armpits, and groin. These major collections of lymph nodes ensure that the lymph passes through as many nodes as possible before it returns to the circulatory system.
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At its most basic, lymph drainage can help clients improve metabolism, regenerate body tissue, normalize organ function, and boost the immune system. It may be performed as part of a traditional massage or used as its own full treatment. Used in conjunction with massage therapy, lymph drainage is likely to benefit clients in general good health. A full lymphatic drainage treatment can be especially effective for clients experiencing lymph and immune system conditions, such as lymphedema, lymphoma, lupus, and a variety of other conditions.
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During a lymph drainage massage, a specially-trained massage therapist uses a series of gliding, compressing, stretching, and cupping motions over the client’s body. The light rhythmic movements, applied without massage oil, stimulate the lymphatic system without compressing the vessels – allowing lymph to move easily through the tissues and lymph nodes. MLD follows a specific sequence over the body so lymph isn’t trapped anywhere, making sure every area is treated with care. Lymphatic drainage, or lymph massage, is a gentle approach that focuses on the top layers of tissues for the enhancement of lymphatic circulation.
Who can benefit from this treatment?
​​​The treatment is particularly effective for people dealing with the following:
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Water retention caused by too much toxicity in the body.
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Feeling foggy
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Sinus build-up
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Digestive problems
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Swelling in the body, particularly if you have swollen ankles or other joints.
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Post-operative work
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Tension in the gut
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Colds, flus, coughing, lung congestion
What are the benefits of a lymphatic drainage?
Improved Immune System
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The immune system is tied to the lymphatic system. In fact, if flow of lymphatic materials slows, the immune system weakens. Lymph drainage massages can improve the function of the immune system and increase the production of antibodies that fight off infections. Lymph drainage massages can also reduce inflammation in the body that causes diseases such as arthritis.
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Additional Benefits
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Skin care: For a much clearer complexion and to lessen the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in facial tissue, as well as to reduce the puffiness around the eyes. The appearance of new scars can be minimized and old scar tissues can be reduced. It is commonly used before and after a cosmetic surgery.
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Detox: At the end of winter, or after a stressful period, the body will greatly benefit from lymphatic drainage, to reduce the sluggishness brought on by starchy, high fat foods and little exercise.
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Headaches: Most headaches such as sinusitis have a component of congestion that responds well to lymphatic drainage. Once tissue gets decongested, blocked fluid and blood flow improve, reducing discomfort and pain.
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Promotes healing: After an injury or a surgery, the tissue may be sore and swollen. Lymphatic drainage is a gentle treatment that will help in draining the tissue, reducing inflammation, and help improve healing.
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Pregnancy and after: Oftentimes, there is fluid retention among pregnant women and lymphatic drainage can improve their comfort, especially in the legs and feet. Breastfeeding will also be enhanced by this gentle treatment, especially when there are problems with sore tight breasts or blocked ducts.
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Reduce swelling: After long periods of immobility or when mobility is lessened, the fluid tends to stagnate in the tissue making it tender and puffy. Conditions such as arthritis often have joints that are congested with fluid. Lymphatic drainage helps in reducing these fluids.
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Relaxation: Because it is a gentle treatment, it is very relaxing. Relaxation is also enhanced as the cleansing and rejuvenating effects, help relieve stress.
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Boost weight loss: improving the lymphatic system will improve your metabolic rate, which helps you burn calories more efficiently.
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