Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage Treatment

If you’ve decided to embark on a self-care journey and support your lymphatic system with a manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage treatment, congratulations! This is a significant step towards improving your overall health and well-being. 

MLD massage treatment is a gentle massage technique that is carried out to assist with our general well-being, as the lymphatic system plays a crucial role in filtering and removing waste from our bodies. When the lymphatic fluid becomes overloaded with toxins, it can lead to feelings of puffiness, heaviness, and stagnation. Moreover, it can negatively impact other systems in our bodies. 

To ensure maximum results, MLD massage is a stand-alone treatment that follows a sequence around the lymphatic system of the body, that will begin with the unaffected body area to ensure the flow of lymphatic fluid is not compromised and is free-flowing when it is moved out of the affected area.

Not only can MLD massage help if you have puffy, swollen limbs but it also helps those who regularly suffer from colds and flu, sinus problems, allergies, digestive issues, cellulite, are undergoing pre- and post-operative surgery or cosmetic surgery and it can have a positive effect before and after long haul flights.

 

The MLD massage treatment focuses on reducing swelling and oedema in the targeted area, enhancing lymphatic circulation, and promoting overall tissue health. Therapists perform gentle and rhythmic massage movements to stimulate the lymphatic system and encourage the natural removal of toxins and excess fluids from the body. This is why it is often recommended as a pre-operative treatment for individuals before undergoing surgical procedures to prepare the body for surgery.

 

Following surgery, post-operative MLD massage plays a crucial role in accelerating the healing process and minimising post-operative swelling, bruising, and discomfort. The gentle massage techniques used in post-operative MLD helps to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and facilitate the body to naturally drain excess fluids from the surgical site. This can lead to a faster recovery time and improved aesthetic outcomes. MLD massage techniques can also contribute to better scar management by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing the formation of scar tissue, leading to improved cosmetic results.

 

It is essential to gain MLD massage treatment consent from your doctor or surgeon after undergoing surgery and to consult with a therapist qualified in pre- and post-operative MLD massage to ensure safe and effective treatment. The timing and frequency of regular MLD massage treatment sessions are also important for your long-term recovery plan, so please check with your surgeon and book your sessions in advance with the MLD therapist.

 

Whatever reason you may be considering MLD massage treatments, you can be assured that at TherapyFit Group we apply specific techniques tailored to your individual needs, to provide you with the best outcome and we are fully qualified pre-and post-operative practitioners.

 

Preparing for Your Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage Treatment

By reducing the toxic load on our systems through pre-treatment measures, we can enhance the effectiveness of the MLD massage treatment and promote comprehensive detoxification.

To ensure you get the most out of your treatment and experience optimal results, follow these tips and recommendations:

1. Hydrate

Proper hydration is key to the human body functioning correctly and is especially important in the effectiveness of the MLD massage treatment. Before your first session and during each treatment period, aim to drink 2-3 litres of water per day. Just like any water system, if the volume is inadequate, things cannot flow smoothly. Hydration supports the movement of lymphatic fluid, facilitating the detoxification process.

2. Nourish

To maximise the effectiveness of your MLD  massage treatment, it is best to limit the intake of products that can hinder lymphatic flow. This includes caffeine, alcohol, and excessive amounts of sugar. Instead, focus on consuming a healthy diet that enhances the detoxification process. If your health care provider has put you on a specialised nutrition or weight loss plan, please be sure to follow that plan so you are on the right track. Or, please refer to the information sheets we provide after your first MLD massage treatment.

3. Move

Exercise is an excellent way to stimulate lymphatic flow. During the treatment process, engage in low-impact workouts, such as swimming, jogging, cycling, or brisk walking. Something as simple as regular physical activity can help promote the movement of lymph towards the nodes, allowing the proper fluid evacuation. During your first treatment your therapist will also provide advice on beneficial home, body therapy techniques you can incorporate into your routine, both before and after treatments.

4. Plan

If you are about to undergo surgery and are looking for pre- and post-operative MLD massage treatments it is important to plan and book in all your sessions, after gaining medical advice from your surgical team, so that you can generally improve your well-being before and after surgery.

If your surgeon also recommends MLD massage treatments should be spaced evenly, (some surgeries require treatment a minimum of 72 hours apart,) please be sure to book all those up in advance to ensure you don’t miss your schedule. Please note at TherapyFit Group we are open until 9pm on some weekday evenings and open on Saturday morning, so booking in advance  means you are more likely to get the dates and times you need.

If you have specific health concerns you would like to address through MLD massage treatment, please discuss this with us, to ensure that your goals are considered, and the treatments are scheduled accordingly. 

It is also important to note that if you are menstruating, it is recommended to avoid treating the abdomen area during that time, due to potential bloating.

5. Inform

If you are drinking 2 to 3 litres of water per day and experiencing digestion issues, such as constipation, it is essential to inform your therapist before proceeding with MLD massage treatment. While experiencing detox symptoms during lymphatic support is not uncommon, it is crucial to ensure that your body can successfully eliminate the released toxins. If your system is overwhelmed  by constipation and a high toxic load, it may be necessary to alleviate the constipation issue before continuing with further treatments.

6. Mindset and Emotions

Be aware that MLD massage treatment can sometimes cause changes in mood and emotional state. While not everyone will experience these changes, it is a normal part of the process for some individuals. If you find yourself experiencing excessively low emotions, seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals. It is essential to allow yourself time and space to process these emotions, as detoxification can impact hormones and feelings. Consider keeping a journal to track how you feel throughout the treatment process, noting any correlations between your diet, physical activity, and treatment sessions.

Final Thought…

Preparing for a MLD massage treatment involves taking proactive steps to support your body’s detoxification process and maximise the effectiveness of the treatment. By hydrating properly, nourishing your body with a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and following the recommended guidelines, you can optimise your MLD massage treatment experience. Remember to communicate openly with your therapist, adhere to any after-care instructions, and record your experiences to tailor future sessions to your specific needs. Embrace this self-care journey and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, revitalised body.