Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is an advanced therapy in which a specifically trained therapist applies gentle, light, but precise hand movements to the skin, exerting different intensities of pressure to increase the activity of normal lymphatic vessels.

This encourages the fluid away from congested areas by bypassing ineffective or injured lymph vessels.

The treatment is very gentle and a typical session involves drainage of the neck, trunk, and the affected extremity (in that order), lasting approximately 40 to 60 minutes. The technique was pioneered by Doctor Emil Vodder in the 1930s for the treatment of chronic sinusitis and other immune disorders.

Aideen has a personal interest in MLD since a close family member developed secondary Lymphoedema following treatment for cancer.

Aideen completed her training in 2008 in the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork and the Wittlinger Therapy Centre in Walchsee, Austria under the instruction of the top professionals in the Vodder method.

MLD benefits conditions such as:

  • Lymphoedema (Primary and Secondary)
  • Injuries
  • Skin conditions such as Eczema and Acne
  • Swelling and the associated pain
  • Pre- and post-cosmetic surgery
  • Sinusitis and congestion
  • Fluid retention
  • Ulcers

Treatment of Injuries

Promotes the healing of fractures, torn ligaments and sprains, reducing the associated pain.

Detox

Improves the ability of the body’s lymphatic system to cleanse from the inside out.

Pregnancy-related swelling

Relieves fluid congestion: e.g. swollen ankles, tired puffy eyes and swollen legs.

Cosmetic Surgery

Accelerates the healing process pre and postcosmetic surgery.

Other conditions which benefit from MLD:

Sinusitis, Stretch marks, Bruising, Rheumatoid arthritis, Glue-ear, Ulcers, Post nasal drip, Scleroderma, Burns, Acne, Scarring, Eczema, Lymphoedema *, Lipoedema **

*Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes swelling (oedema) in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body but usually develops in the arms or legs. It develops when the lymphatic system cannot function normally. This may be as a result of damage to or removal of lymph nodes during treatment for cancer (Secondary Lymphedema), or it may be
hereditary (Primary Lymphoedema).

If you are affected by this condition or are at risk of developing it due to recent cancer treatment, it is vital to keep yourself informed of potential triggers. It is recommended that you see an appropriately trained therapist as soon as possible. Aideen is trained in the Vodder method of MLD and is required to update her skills on a bi-annual basis.

**Lipoedema

Lipoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition typically involving an abnormal build-up of fat cells in the legs, thighs and buttocks. The condition is more common in women but can affect men.