The Spirit Within

This is a very specialised type of massage and is an important part of the treatment of lymphoedema. To be effective in treating lymphoedema, it is important to use the correct technique. The aim of the massage is to stimulate or move the excess fluid away from the swollen area so that it can drain away normally. Massage also encourages and improves drainage in the healthy lymphatics (which helps keep fluid away from swollen areas).

MLD is particularly useful if there is swelling in the face, breast, abdomen, genitals or elsewhere on the trunk.

The lymphatic system has no central pump and depends on muscle contraction through deep breathing, exercise and manual manipulation to move fluid. Therefore, MLD aims to stimulate the lymphatic system to remove congestion and stagnation from within the body, and so help it return to a healthy condition.

Lymphatic massage utilizes a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. The Immune system function can be significantly increased, improving metabolism and helping the body to eliminate waste and toxins.

Symptoms that are said to respond well to MLD are a weakened immune system, chronic congestion (sinus etc), rheumatoid arthritis and the healing of wounds, burns and scars. MLD is also often incorporated into the treatment and control of Lymphoedema, and works particularly well after breast cancer treatments.