Tel: 07977 883141       Email: enquiries@phoenixholistictherapy.com

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

You may also be interested in MLD for Lymphoedema.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a method of encouraging the movement of fluids through the tissues of the body.

Sometimes fluid can accumulate in tissues and when the fluid builds to the point where it becomes too much for the lymphatics to drain it away, oedema (swelling) occurs.

A well functioning lymphatic system contributes to healthy body tissue and plays an important part in the body’s immune responses.

The main function of the lymphatic system is detoxification and disposal of metabolic waste and MLD is particularly beneficial when there is lymph congestion and stagnation. Stimulation of the system encourages clearing of waste materials. Many conditions respond favourably, including those involving fluid retention and swelling of the tissue, for example arthritis, sinus problems and sprains or strains. MLD is also an essential part of the aftercare treatment following VASER liposuction procedures, to enhance healing following surgery.

During a MLD treatment, the therapist’s fingers and hands are used to give repetitive light movements on the skin in a slow and rhythmical way, with a very light pressure. These movements stimulate the lymphatic vessels to contract in a more organised and effective way. The hands are the only tools used in this technique and MLD has a very different touch to any other massage. The subtle manual manoeuvres activate lymph and interstitial fluid transportation, as well as calming the sympathetic nervous system, helping to bring balance between this and the parasympathetic nervous system (the night nerve, which permits us to rest, sleep, and renew our strength for the next day). The precise movements of MLD are extremely important to the effectiveness of the techniques and outcomes.

MLD is both preventative and remedial and can enhance your well being. Furthermore, MLD can:

  • be deeply relaxing
  • relieve chronic pain
  • promote the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains and strains
  • improve many chronic conditions: sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis
  • relieve fluid congestion, for example, swollen ankles or legs and tired puffy eyes
  • promote healing of wounds and burns and improve the appearance of old scars.

A full consultation is undertaken before any treatment is offered, as it is vital that the therapist is aware of any reason why MLD is not a suitable treatment for the particular client. MLD should not be used for people with acute inflammation, malignant tumours, thrombosis or major heart problems, for example, so each case is individually assessed and, if necessary, medical approval will be sought from a GP or consultant.

MLD was first created and developed by Dr Emil Vodder in France in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Since this pioneering work, MLD has become a popular treatment in many European hospitals and clinics and therapists who trained through the original ‘Dr Vodder Schule’ are highly trained, have undergone intensive training and have passed examinations in both theoretical and practical aspects of the lymphatic system and treatment techniques and protocols. MLD now sits comfortably in both the medical world and the complementary world and is an accepted part of rehabilitation units, physiotherapy departments and massage departments.

Despite MLD’s importance, there are few practitioners in this country who are trained to treat problems of a lymphatic nature effectively, and I am delighted that I am now qualified, registered with the British Lymphology Society and MLDUK and am insured to offer Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Sleaford and the surrounding area, either in your own home, or in clinic settings in Sleaford, Grantham or Newark.

If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me direct on 07977 883141.


Customer Comments

"I feel amazing. I can't remember the last time I felt this good!"
      MLD Client, Sleaford


Mission Statement: To provide high quality therapies, personally tailored to enhance wellbeing and quality of life.

Phoenix Holistic Therapy