What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle manual treatment that involves manipulation of the superficial lymphatic system which is located underneath the skin and above the fascia. 

• MLD is not to be confused with massage; massage is to knead, working with fascia and past the fascia into the muscle

The Lymphatic System

• The Lymphatic System  is part of the immune system

• It is a uni-directional transportation system purposed to absorb and filter substances that are unable to be reabsorbed by the circulatory system.

• Lymphatic Fluid is absorbed in the interstitial spaces by the lymphatic capillaries. The lymph fluid moves through the valves located in the lymphatic collectors by means of skeletal muscle and joint movement. 

• Lymph Fluid travels towards lymph nodes and through the nodes to be filtered; this is where toxins are captured and destroyed. 

•  The lymph fluid travels via lymphatic collectors through lymph nodes until it reaches the subclavian veins where the filtered lymph fluid is reabsorbed into the venous system.

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

• Reduces edema

• Enhances venous flow

• Analgesic

• Promotes parasympathetic response

• Increase in lymph production/Increase in lymph flow