The role of lymph massage in your health.
As a massage therapist it is essential to understand the movement of not only our blood system but also the lymphatic system as both are activated in either massage or lymph massage.
Although lymph massage is a very different technique to massage and requires a very different physical application such as a lighter, gentler and directional aspect triggering the movement of the lymph flow in the body.
Before we get on to the benefits of what lymph massage can do for you. It may be beneficial to understand firstly what the lymph system is responsible for and how a healthy and well-functioning lymphatic system keeps you well.
The lymphatic system is the frontline of our body's defence. It is responsible for our bodies ability to fight disease and infection by localising foreign bodies. it is also involved in detoxifying our body like our own inbuilt waste disposal unit, transporting toxins bacteria, excess fluid and metabolic waste of our bodies as well as producing other imuno- competent cells primarily T&B cells which are involved in fighting infection.
Daily stress, fatigue, emotional shock, chemical overloading Infection pollution food preservatives amongst other things can greatly impair the functioning of healthy tissue and healthy lymphatic pathways. If the lymphatic system stopped moving the excess fluid add leaked proteins back into the circulatory system the body would develop severe oedema and death would result in 24 to 48 hours.
MLD or manual lymphatic drainage is a very specific massage technique primarily through the timing direction and pressure of the application assisting our body to refresh and rejuvenate its fluid enabling it to establish resistance to all types of stress that our systems are placed under by stimulating the immune system. MLD is a well-researched and scientific modality that has many heroes and forbearers in the research and application. I just need to point out very strongly it is not a muscular massage but essentially works above the muscle fascia as 70% of the lymphatic fluid is found there MLD stimulates fluid circulation and elimination assisting our clients with detoxification. it encourages the lymphatic system to absorb and transport lymph more effectively.
MLD can be used in many applications and has a profound effect on increasing lymphatic flow.
Below is a list of benefits to receiving manual lymphatic drainage.
MLD post-surgery can assist greatly in preventing scarring of the area and enable the body to remove unwanted fluid at the site thus preventing infection
pre surgery MLD is an a invaluable tool for softening and relaxing tissue that needs to be operated on
Oedemas, sprains and other post traumatic conditions can be treated effectively with the immediate application of RICE therapy in conjunction with MLD
lymphoedema both primary and secondary
sinus infection
breast surgery augmented simple or total
dermatology eczema, acne and vulgaris
Aesthetically such as wrinkles
Scarring
gastro enterology, Constipation and digestive issues.
Rheumatology (musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders)
Neurology (migraines, strokes)
Orthopedy
Adema during pregnancy
Post surgical conditions bronchitis asthma and allergies affecting breathing.
Of course, the effectiveness of MLD varies per situation and client and any serious health condition would be approved by the person's medical practitioner and specialist but for the general part it is a safe modality except with a few exceptions.
To summarise, lymph massage or manual lymphatic drainage is not only fantastic for relatively serious health concerns or medical procedures but is also part of your everyday health and wellbeing routine. You would receive so many health benefits from this fabulous application. Please consider one today. I am available to answer any further questions and would love to hear from you to make a booking to try this modality today. You can send me an email or text or even call. Bookings can be made online via the link below.