Modality Series - Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
What is lymph, and how is it drained?
Lymph is a clear and colorless fluid; the word "lymph" comes from the Latin word lympha, which means "connected to water," It consists of white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, the cells that attack bacteria in the blood and fluid from the intestines called chyle, which contains proteins and fats. It is the fluid in blisters, the clear fluid that comes out of pimples after the debris comes out, as well as in others. The lymphatic system primarily consists of lymphatic vessels, which are similar to the circulatory system's veins and capillaries. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. The difference, though, between the circulatory system and the lymph system is the circulatory system has its own pump that acts on its own without assistance. The lymph system needs to be physically pumped, either through exercise or by an MLD therapist. Lymph is “drained” into the nodes, filtered, and pumped back through the body’s vessels.
How is MLD performed, and how does it affect the body?
This modality is a light, gentle, orderly pumping technique that does not use oil or lotion, though essential oils that stimulate lymphatic flow may be used at the therapist’s discretion. The contact with the skin stretches the initial lymph capillaries to pull open the "doors" with one hand and push fluid and metabolic waste with the other hand. MLD detoxifies the body of chemicals and natural metabolic waste. The gentle technique opens the endothelial cells of the lymph capillary allowing large macro-molecules (proteins, cellular debris, denatured cells, water, fats, hormones, and more) to push extra-cellular fluids through to become lymph. MLD increases the production of lymph 10- to 30-fold. Repetitive pumping of the lymph nodes (15 pumps) sufficiently empties the nodes and increases the production of lymphocytes by 30%, which boosts immune function. It slowly decreases over the course of a few days. Back-to-back sessions (daily or every other day, then a break for a few days and repeat) is the best to achieve the best results.
How does MLD feel?
MLD is very soothing and calming - most people either fall asleep or become very relaxed. It is not a deeply pressured modality, so anyone can have it done - children, adults, those recuperating from surgeries (even same day!), seniors, those in hospice, athletes, etc. This modality is also highly favored because of the increased healing rate, as well as because it can be performed while the client/patient is fully clothed. Although it can be incorporated with regular massage, I usually suggest getting the best of both.
What should I expect after a session?
I have had clients go home and take a nap, so expect to experience relaxation and some tiredness. As well as, since MLD increases the production of the lymph so high, many have noticed more frequent urination over the next day or two. This is expected, so increase your water intake to make up for the body expelling it.
Any questions? Leave it in a comment down below!
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/lymphatic-vessels-discovered-central-nervous-system
https://www.livescience.com/26983-lymphatic-system.html
https://ossipinskyhealthacademy.com/lymphatic-drainage-helps-problems-associated-concussions-mild-traumatic-brain-injury-mtbi/