You may have heard the terms "lymphatic drainage," "lymphatic massage," "manual lymphatic drainage," or "MLD" and wondered what they mean. These are all terms for the same type of bodywork! Manual lymphatic drainage, or MLD, is a form of medical massage that helps your lymphatic system work better to help you feel your best. Before we talk about the bodywork, let's get acquainted a little with the body's lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is a system of vessels (similar to arteries and veins, but much smaller) that carry lymph fluid through nodes that filter out waste materials such as excess water, cellular debris, and fatty lipids. MLD activates the vessels to move this waster matter through the system a little faster in order to help alleviate swelling, pain, and bruising, as well as minimizing scar tissue.
Pre- and Post-Surgery Benefits
Prior to surgery, lymphatic massage can help boost your immune system so healing time is quicker and smoother. Post-surgery, lymphatic drainage helps bring down the swelling associated with the work received during surgery.
I generally recommend beginning lymphatic massage work at least once per week for the four weeks leading into surgery, but check with your doctor, as he or she may recommend more or less frequently. Post-surgery, I recommend twice a week as soon as you are cleared by your doctor. This is usually within the first week or two post-surgery. The number of sessions after your surgery will vary depending on how well your healing progresses and how well your body responds to the therapy.
Who Should Receive MLD Therapy?
MLD is often recommended to patients who:
- have suffered an acute injury, as this work helps alleviate pain, swelling, and bruising
- are scheduled for corrective surgery
- are scheduled for cosmetic surgery such as liposuction, tummy tuck, mommy makeover
