Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)Manual Lymph Drainage consists of a series of very slow, gentle, highly specialised massage movements which has a stimulating effect on the flow of lymph fluid. Rhythmical pumping and draining movements are used with some deep breathing techniques to ensure that the lymph fluid of the whole body is systematically and thoroughly stimulated. This has the effect of relaxing the body and actively unblocking congested areas of fluid , so reducing areas of swelling, inflammation and pain. The lymphatic system is the source of the immune system and when it is congested or damaged, the body's immune responses are hindered. A healthy lymph system allows the body to respond to the best of its ability by absorbing more nutrients as well as fighting off infection and illness more effectively. MLD is also excellent to use as a preventative treatment to stabilise and maintain good health MLD Can Help:
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Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT)Combined (or Complex) Decongestive Therapy is essential in the treatment of lymphoedema, lipoedema, venous insufficiency oedema and trauma injuries. It combines Manual Lymphatic Drainage technique with bandaging, exercises and skin care. It may also include breathing exercises and compression garments.
One of the most frequent indications for this therapy is lymphoedema resulting either from radiation or cancer surgery. CDT has been shown to relieve the pain and discomfort that accompany oedema and fibrosis. CDT is a very intense treatment. You will be seen daily for 2-3 weeks (tailored to the individual) in order to give the oedema the best possible chance of reducing and then being managed. Your limbs will be regularly measured and monitored throughout the treatment. Each session will be made up of an MLD treatment followed by compression bandaging. This is done using a combination of different bandage types, along with padding to reduce the oedema, reduce fibrosis and reshape the limb. This process leads to greater patient comfort and mobility along with improvement to the condition of the skin. You will also be shown how to exercise the affected limb in between sessions in order to further stimulate the lymphatic vessel muscles and so contribute again to the reduction of the oedema. Once the desired results are achieved the affected limb may be measured for compression hosiery that can be applied by patients themselves or with the help of a partner. |
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Copyright © 2006 Lesley Mercer; |
Lesley MercerManual Lymph Drainage & Combined Decongestive TherapyTherapeutic Massage, Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) |
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