Manual Lymphatic Drainage
In short, MLD enlarges lymphatic pathways enhancing the flow of fluids to decrease swollen tissue, relieve pain and promote healing.
When any trauma occurs, whether surgical or accidental, fluids collect around the injured area to cushion or protect it. These fluids can become stagnant, causing hematomas or hardened gelatinous deposits to develop. MLD alleviates this fluid build up through exercising and massaging the skin with circular movements to stimulate lymphatic vessels and nodes to disperse the stagnant fluids into regenerated pathways. Consistent MLD treatments forge alternate pathways increasing circulation and stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system.
Pre and Post Operative Benefits to MLD:
Recent information describes benefits to manual lymphatic drainage prior to surgery by relaxing the nervous system and preparing the tissue for the upcoming procedure.
Post operative MLD alleviates pain, decreasing hardening or gelatin remnants resulting from an injury or surgical procedure.