Services

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

The lymphatic system is the “waste removal” system of the body. The lymphatic system removes impurities and debris from the body’s tissue and blood. This debris is called the “lymphatic load” and consists of toxins, protein, water, cells and fat. Lymph flows in one direction only; towards the heart. Its movement is stimulated by the movement of skeletal muscles, diaphragmatic breathing and massage (Manual Lymphatic Drainage).

Lymphatic vessels begin in the tissues of the body as tiny capillaries. These capillaries eventually connect with larger and deeper vessels. Interspersed along the lymphatic vessels are lymph nodes where foreign substances like bacteria are filtered out and immune responses are activated. The lymph then drains into the lymphatic ducts which then empties the lymph into the circulatory system.

As long as the lymphatic “load” remains lower than the transport capacity of the lymphatic system, it runs smoothly. If the “load” increases due to inflammation, surgery, radiation or trauma, and exceeds the ability of the lymphatic system, edema (oedema) will occur. The physical symptoms are swelling or puffiness in the tissue.

In early stages, edema can be treated with lymphatic massage, elevation of limb, compression stockings and remedial exercises. Lymphedema left untreated can gradually worsen. Edema will slowly be replaced by fibrotic tissue, making the swollen area feel hard. Patients who do not address their edema can experience frequent infections, changes in their skin and loss of function in the affected joint. Since lymphedema is a progressive condition treatment should begin as early as possible.

Causes of Edema:

• Trauma
• Immune Response
• Burns
• Allergies
• Radiation treatment
• Scarring (ie. post-surgical scars, removal of breast or breast augmentation)
• Infections

Women please note, edema may be experienced because of the following:

• Removal of lymph nodes (ie. Mastectomy)
• Pregnancy
• Sodium retention may lead to premenstrual edema

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage:

• Decrease in appearance of swollen area
• Decrease in headaches and sinusitis
• Decrease in allergies (due to removal of toxins)
• Decrease the probability of frequent infections
• Decrease swelling due to surgeries
• Increase the speed of the body’s natural healing process
• Decrease edema due to the removal of breast tissue and the surrounding lymph nodes
• Decrease the symptoms of P.M.S.