Lymphatic Therapies

 Manual Lymphatic Drainage

The building blocks of our health lie within the efficient functioning and vibrancy of our immune system. Our immune system is responsible for defending our body against everything from the common cold and flu to the ravages of cancer. Not enough can be said for protecting this vital system for living and enjoying a long robust life.

The lymphatic system is the body system that primarily supports and creates our immune system. It is the first line of defense as it transports a multitude of harmful substances out of the body tissues. When the lymphatic system is sluggish, our immune system can become compromised leaving us open to disease. For a quick explanation of the lymphatic system click here or here.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps the lymphatic system work more efficiently at carrying out the harmful substances that can collect in the tissues of the body that put it at risk of developing disease. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very relaxing, soothing, full body treatment that gently stimulates the lymphatic system helping cast off toxins and excess fluids. This makes it great for acute and chronic edema as well. For more general benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage click here to read a quick article.

Lymphedema

When the body has a disruption in the lymphatic system, lymphedema can result. Lymphedema is a condition that can cause minimal to significant swelling in a part of the body (most commonly arms and legs). It is due to excess fluid and toxin build up. Lymphedema can occur when the lymphatic system becomes damaged due to certain disease processes (cancer) procedures (surgery) and other health conditions. Lymphedema can be a life-altering condition if not addressed correctly and in a timely manner. There are multiple considerations when treating and dealing with Lymphedema. Please click here for a great video that explains the process of lymphedema. (The above video is an advertisement for a pneumatic compression pump that I do not sell, it was just a great video explaining lymphedema.)

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a gentle, hands-on body technique for the lymphatic system. MLD moves lymph fluid and inflammation from multiple regions of the body into the deeper parts of the lymphatic system. From there, the fluid is transported back to the circulatory system, and then out of the body. MLD decreases inflammation in the body, both acute (injury, surgical), and chronic, (autoimmune disorders, venous and cardiac insufficiency). It is also vital for detoxification of the cells.

Lymphedema Education

Lymphedema and the lymphatic system once understood is a simple concept. The problem is that many health professionals are not as educated as they need to be. I have met many people at risk for lymphedema who were very poorly educated on how to manage their lymphedema and lymphedema risk. Whether you have been living with and managing your lymphedema on your own, are newly diagnosed or at risk of developing lymphedema, I can educate you in simple layman's terms to help with prevention and self-care. 

The Lymphatic System and the Brain

In 2015, the University of Virginia made a discovery that scientists claim will change all medical texts.

• Scientists discovered that the brains of mice contain functional lymphatic vessels that can carry fluid and immune cells from cerebrospinal fluid.
  
• Further work will explore whether problems in this system might play a role in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, meningitis, autism, and multiple sclerosis.
  
• Full Article HERE
  

Whether you are looking to improve your health, prevent disease, reduce post-surgical downtime and/or take control, understand and treat your Lymphedema, I would feel privileged to help.

Please call 623-249-8555