The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system. Our heart, blood, arteries and veins form a closed system through which the heart pumps our blood throughout our body. The lymphatic system is similar, except that it is an open system with no pump. Lymph fluid travels through the body,carrying waste away from cells to be removed by lymph nodes located throughout the body. It is a critical part of the body’s immune system, and of our bodies’ ability to keep us healthy.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a superficial, light-touch technique to increase the flow of lymph through the body by stretching the skin to open lymphatic vessels. MLD may relieve symptoms of a variety of ailments, including migraine and chronic headaches, sinus congestion, tinnitus, constipation, acne, rosacea, eczema, rheumatoid and osteo arthritis, tendonitis, repetitive strain injury, whiplash and other trauma.
Post-Operative Treatment
Because MLD can help reduce swelling and promote healing, recovery times can potentially also be reduced. In cases where lymph nodes have been removed, regular MLD can help prevent onset of lymph-edema.*
General Well-Being
Even healthy individuals can benefit from increased lymph circulation; increased processing of the body’s waste can lead to more energy and better immunity. Additionally, the technique is an extremely relaxing form of massage.
* Sarah is not trained for this type of therapy. However, she can help connect you to resources who can provide post-operative treatment.
Resources
Manual Lymphatic Drainage and its Therapeutic Benefits, by Anne Willis, Positive Health Online.
Go With the Flow: Manual Lymphatic Drainage, by Michelle Vallet, AMTA.