Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Created by Drs. Emil and Estrid Vodder in the 1930's, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, hands-on bodywork modality that targets the lymphatic system, which plays a large role in overall health and immunity. A healthy lymphatic system has proper lymph flow and aids in eliminating toxins, bacteria, and cellular debris, as well as helping to keep our immune systems primed by transporting white blood cells to and from lymph nodes. Healthy lymph is clear to white in color and moves easily through this full-body system. However, age, pregnancy, injuries, surgeries, traumas, and various forms of daily activity can restrict or block lymphatic flow and cause backed up lymph fluid to turn viscous - thick, sticky, and discolored - which in turn can lead to skin issues, hair loss, fibrosis, swelling, edema, a weakened immune response, and, in older individuals, Alzheimer's and dementia.
What to Expect
MLD is a gentle technique performed skin-on-skin with no emollient of any kind. Gentle strokes are used to open the lymphatic vessels and encourage flow, and it is very possible to see immediate results in just one session. To prepare for a session, make sure that you are properly hydrated - drinking water before your appointment helps the body flush out the lymphatic system even more. MLD has shown to be greatly beneficial for:
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Because of the nature of MLD, it is recommended that men wear gym shorts for treatment, and women wear a sports bra and loose fitting gym shorts or a two-piece bathing suit. You are also welcome to wear a regular bra and underwear, if you are comfortable doing so. During and after treatment, you may feel the need to urinate more frequently as fluid and toxins are flushed from your body; a bath robe is provided for you to wear if you need to use the bathroom in the middle of the session. Please do not apply any lotion or moisturizer before your appointment.
Contraindications
If you are currently experiencing any of the following, please refrain from scheduling an MLD session at this time:
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Be sure to read over the FAQs and Policies when booking an appointment.
Please call to book same-day appointments.
Full Body Manual Lymphatic Drainage
MLD works with the lymphatic system to release blockages and encourage flow for overall well-being and immune health. The full body session opens the major drains and works with the highways and extremities to reduce and clear blockages and allow the system to open and flow properly.
60min
60min
Lymphatic Face Lift
The MLD face lift targets the lymphatic system in the head, neck, and face to encourage flow and reduce puffiness, edema, and skin irritations such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. Release of lymphatic blockages and increased flow in this area have also shown to aid eyesight, clogged sinuses, hair regrowth, memory, and some reductions in Alzheimer's and dementia.
30min
30min
Self-Care Protocol
Learn how to do an abbreviated 20 minute front body routine or a 15 minute facial routine at home. While there's nothing quite like having a certified professional work on you - particularly in those hard-to-reach areas - we always encourage our clients to participate in self-care. Learn to do these routines at home, in-between full-length sessions.
60min
60min
Pre- and Post-Op Protocol
When performed both before and after surgery, MLD leads to greater recovery and has the potential to reduce recovery time. Pre- and post-op MLD protocol includes (5) 60 minute consecutive sessions the week before surgery, and multiple sessions of varying length after surgery once you have been cleared for bodywork by your physician. To utilize MLD for pre- and post-op health, we will need your permission to speak with your doctor to ensure that proper protocols are being followed - consider us part of your healthcare and recovery team. For scheduling and pricing, please contact us.