Pump Lymphatics
Myofascial Lymphatic Drainage
Myofascial Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (also referred to as simply MFLD) is a very gentle type of manual therapy used to drain excess fluid from the body and improve the overall functioning of the lymphatic (immune) system. MFLD is most commonly used to treat Lymphedema, which is characterized by the blockage of lymph nodes in the arms and legs.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage originated in Europe during the 1930s. It was first used on patients as an effective way to detoxify (ridding of waste) the body. Today, MLDT is still used as a way to improve the inner workings of the lymphatic system. The massage is applied gently in the direction of lymph flow in order to unblock any obstructed lymph vessels, and allow lymph flow to transport waste from the body freely.
MFLD is performed by a certified MFLD massage therapist, who applies a light form of pumping massage to their clients skin. MFLD is applied in gentle strokes towards the heart. This technique will lightly stretch the walls of the lymph vessels and encourage lymph drainage.
During your MFLD treatment your massage therapist will use the Myofascial Pump Technique to gently stretch the skin and fascia to encourage drainage of lymph.
Benefits of Myofascial Lymphatic Drainage
•Because of its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects, Lymphatic Drainage is indicated for a large number of health conditions. However you don't need to be sick or in pain to benefit from this gentle treatment.
•Regular work with Lymphatic Drainage can help maintain the health of your tissues and cells and contribute to overall wellness and prevent disease.
•Its relaxing effect on the nervous system can be very effective in countering the toll that stress takes on your body and mind.
Indications for Myofascial Lymphatic Drainage
Musculoskeletal
Sprains/ Strains, Muscle/ ligament tears, Arthritis, Tendonitis, Neck pain/ whiplash, Chronic pain
Neurological
Tension headaches, Migraines, Neuralgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Carpal tunnel syndrome
Stress reduction
Anxiety, Insomnia
Surgical
Post-surgical swelling, Pre-surgical preparation, Pre/ post cosmetic surgery, Varicose veins, Post vein stripping, Post lymph node removal, Post mastectomy edema
Diseases of the digestive tract
Chronic constipation, Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, IBS, Diverticulitis, Celiac disease
Autoimmune Diseases
Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Lyme Disease
Contraindications for MFLD
Contraindications happen when an increase in lymph flow would be detrimental. Contraindications can either be absolute or relative. The physician can override relative contraindications if he or she finds good reason, but the absolute contraindication cannot be overridden
Absolute Contraindications : Lymphatic drainage is not appropriate at this time.
· Acute Inflammation
· Malignant tumors
· Thrombosis (Blood clot)
· Major heart problems including Congestive Heart Failure and Heart Attack- Increasing lymph flow may increase the cardiac load and increase pulmonary edema.
Relative Contraindications: Adjustments to the treatment usually address the situation.
· Kidney problems – check with the physician before treating.
· Bronchial asthma – this can stimulate the Vagus nerve bringing on an attack.
· Thyroid problems – no treatment around the throat.
· Medications – fear of increasing the dosage by draining the interstitial spaces.
· Chemotherapy – fear of increasing the dosage by draining the interstitial spaces.
· Removed spleen – recommend shorter session first.
· Menstruation – MFLD can increase the flow.