Manual Lymphatic Drainage | Pain Management & Lymph Oedema Treatment

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

During the early 1930's Dr. Emil Vodder created a unique range of movements which brought relief to chronic conditions such as sinus congestion. Since Vodder's pioneering work, Manual Lymphatic Drainage has spread worldwide and has become an accepted treatment in many European hospitals and clinics. It is now beginning to gain acceptance in New Zealand as a component in the treatment and control of lymphoedema and chronic pain management.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is primarily used to promote the optimal functioning of the lymphatic vessels and to evacuate the excess protein from around the cells. It is an advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a range of specialised and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the skin in the direction of the lymph flow. The skin is stretched and torqued in a specific manner, based on scientific, physiological principles that have proven to encourage lymph flow. When performed correctly with the correct pressure, direction and speed, this can greatly enhance recovery and facilitate drainage.

MLD is most commonly used to treat Primary and Secondary lymph oedema. It is a gentle, non-invasive manual technique that has a powerful effect on the body. It also has profound effects on systems in the body. Activating the flow of lymph and thereby the lymphatic system’s cleansing process will indirectly affect organs such as the liver, kidneys and lungs, stimulating a detoxification process and boosting energy. The only product prescribed after a lymphatic drainage therapy session is water.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Treatment In Our Clinic

The Hands On Clinic performs MLD treatments based on lymphodynamic and lymphostatic oedema. The style and skills applied in our clinic originate from the Emil Vodder School and the Dr Judith Casley-Smith School. This combination of methods has proven to be highly effective and beneficial for our clients. Complementary to the MLD treatment we provide medical compression garments and perform compression bandaging.

Each therapy session begins with a proximal pre-treatment. Through this pre-treatment, a proximal area is cleared for the distal oedema fluids. As the treatment proceeds, this fluid can be carried away from the stagnant tissue to the area that was pretreated, and from there transported away.

The strokes performed during the treatment must be done in a way that achieves the effect without inflicting damage. The hand does merely slide over the skin. Strokes should be firm enough to stimulate relaxation.

The manual techniques used to encourage lymphatic drainage are:

Stationary Circles these strokes are applied in continuous spirals with the practitioner’s fingertips typically over the neck, face and lymphatic nodes.
The Pump Technique the practitioner will place their palms down on the skin, and make oval strokes with their fingers and thumbs to encourage lymph flow.
The Rotary Technique the practitioner moves the skin in circular motions with their palms facing down. The wrists are used to apply and lessen the stroke pressure.
Scoop Strokes the practitioner’s palms will face up, and their fingers remain outstretched so that their hands are cupped to resemble a scoop. Twisting strokes are applied to the clients skin to encourage waste disposal.

A first visit will include a consultation during which the practitioner will recommend the number and frequency of future treatments. Each session will last approximately one hour. Where appropriate we will work in conjunction with your medical practitioner. When beneficial for the client, we teach them how to do a simplified version of Manual Lymphatic Drainage themselves at home for lymph oedema treatment or pain management.