The lymphatic system is a network of vessels
running throughout the body, whose purpose is to remove excess water and waste products from
connective tissue. The fluid in these vessels is called lymph. This is a clear liquid that contains
white blood cells (lymphocytes), proteins, and some red blood cells. Lymph is drained into larger
vessels within the network, called lymph nodes. These play an important role in the immune system,
filtering and processing invading organisms and abnormal cells carried in the lymph. Where
connective tissue has been damaged or injured, the lymphatic system is responsible for transporting
damaged cells and toxins away from the affected area. The more rapidly this occurs, the quicker
recovery is likely to be.
In the 1930s, Danish physical therapists Emil
and Estrid Vodder carried out extensive investigations into the action of the lymph vessel system.
Based on this work, they developed a series of subtle manipulations to stimulate the flow
of fluid within the network. They were encouraged by early successes in treating patients with
chronic conditions such as catarrh and sinus problems, and went on to devise a systematic approach
to treatment of the entire body.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is an advanced therapy based on the Vodders’ work 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. This stimulates the lymphatic vessels and accelerates their work of carrying substances vital to the defence of the body and removing waste products. MLD is a slow, rhythmic touch applied by the therapist in the form of a light massage. It is incredibly relaxing, and people often fall asleep during treatment. It has a calming, anti-stress effect. MLD can facilitate a reduction of pain by exciting the ‘touch receptors’ in the skin which produce a blocking signal to the brain.
