The Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is responsible for carrying excess fluid, proteins, bacteria, and waste materials from the tissues, thus cleansing the tissues of debris.  Once these particles enter the lymphatic system they are called lymph.  The lymph is transported to lymph nodes where it is cleansed and filtered and then it is returned to the blood stream.  The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body’s defense against infection.

What is Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) Therapy?

MLD is a series of light, rhythmic maneuvers which increases the flow of excess fluids from the tissues.  MLD is sometimes referred to as a massage but its strokes are much softer than traditional massage.

The goal of MLD is to reroute the lymph fluid around areas that are blocked and gently move it into areas with healthy lymph vessels where the lymph fluid can drain normally.

MLD is often used post-surgically to decrease swelling, bruising, scarring, and pain.  It speeds up the healing process by removing fluids and cellular debris thus allowing the blood to circulate more freely and nourish the tissues.  Because the strokes used are very gentle and light, MLD soothes the nervous system and, thereby, decreases pain and creates a feeling of relaxation.    

Benefits of MLD

When to have MLD

When NOT to have MLD

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a condition that occurs when the ability of the lymphatic system to transport lymph is compromised resulting in the abnormal accumulation of fluid and proteins in the tissues. It can be classified as either primary or secondary. An abnormality in the lymphatic system that is either congenital or hereditary is termed "primary". Secondary lymphedema is the result of a known event which causes mechanical damage to the lymphatic system.

Common causes of secondary lymphedema include surgery, radiation, trauma, infection, malignant tumors, immobility, and chronic venous insufficiencies. The highest incidence of lymphedema in the US is observed in patients who have undergone breast cancer surgery. There are precautions that can be taken to avoid the development of lymphedema. More information about this can be found by contacting the National Lymphedema Network at www.lymphnet.org.

Treating Lymphedema

When patients experience persistent swelling after surgery they are often told that it is due to the surgery and it will go away eventually. When the swelling does not go away and lymphedema is suspected, many patients are told there is nothing that can be done for it. It is up to the patient to seek out further information and treatment options. Currently, there is no cure for lymphedema but, it can be treated using Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT consists of Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy, compression using short stretch bandages, skin care, and decongestive exercises. There are several hospitals in the Atlanta area with lymphedema clinics. The therapists at these clinics can determine whether or not a patient has lymphedema.

MLD Therapy for Lymphedema Maintenance and Prevention

If a patient has been treated for Lymphedema he/she is taught how to do self MLD as a way of decreasing fluid accumulation in the tissues. Often patients are unable to effectively or consistently do self MLD. As a result, fluid accumulates in hard to reach areas such as the back. These patients can be helped tremendously by regular MLD Therapy sessions. By being treated once a week, or as needed, a patient can prevent fluid from re-accumulating in their limbs. Because this fluid is protein rich, when it accumulates, it can put a patient at higher risk for developing infections (cellulitis). Tissues in the affected limb can also become fibrotic if re-accumulation is not prevented.

For patients considered "at risk" (anyone who has had surgery that involved the lymphatic system), MLD therapy can help to re-route any fluid that might be accumulating unnoticed or, it can decrease any swelling that might arise periodically due to over use of the affected limb, air travel, stress, etc.

Reference

Zuther JE. Lymphedema Management: The Comprehensive Guide for Practitioners.  New York: Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.; 2005

Requirements for Certification in MLD and CDT

The Dr. Vodder School’s certification program is a four-week, 160-hour program in Manual Lymph Drainage and Combined Decongestive Therapy.  Students learn the anatomy and physiology of the lymph vessel system, therapeutic applications of MLD, pathologies, bandaging, and MLD treatments for Lymphedema.  Students must take an oral, written, and practical exam to demonstrate competence in techniques, treatment, and bandaging.  Certification is obtained after successfully completing the examinations.

In order to maintain their certification, therapists must attend a three-day re-certification course every two years.  As part of this course, therapists must be able to demonstrate continued competence in MLD and bandaging.  Therapists also learn new skills, and are updated on the latest research and methods in the field.

For more information, contact the Dr. Vodder School North America at: www.vodderschool.com or 250-598-9862

Testimonials

“I met Joan Manning two years ago when I had undergone some surgery and was having problems with swelling and bruising.  I had never heard of lymphatic drainage until I was diagnosed with cellulitis and my surgeon suggested it.  After only one session with Joan, I could see and feel the difference in the swelling, and the bruising began to fade.

During the last year, I suffered an injury which also led to extreme bruising and swelling.  Again, I called on Joan and, just as quickly, I could see and feel results of the treatment.

I highly recommend lymphatic drainage massage for anyone recovering from surgery, medical treatment, or an injury.” 

Brenda J. Brown, Alpharetta, GA

“The first time I met Joan was the afternoon before I had plastic surgery.  She massaged from my neck up.  I drank all the water I was supposed to, and I had very little swelling after the surgery.  The nurses were amazed.”

Joedy Baughan, Atlanta, GA

“Lymphatic drainage is so important to help with an even skin tone, a healthy glow on the face, and absence of dark circles in the eye area.  The lymphatic treatments that I have had with Joan Manning have dramatically improved my skin.  It looks great!”

Rebecca Gordon, Licensed Aesthetician, Alpharetta, GA

About Me

I am certified by the Dr. Vodder School in Manual Lymph Drainage and Combined Decongestive Therapy.  A graduate of Rising Spirit Institute of Natural Health, I have been Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork since 1996.  I am certified in Swedish Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Foot Reflexology and Kinesio Taping.  I have also studied Sports Massage, Orthopedic Massage, and Cranio-Sacral Therapy.

I obtained a BS degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, and an MS degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of Central Florida. 

I furthered my education by taking undergraduate and graduate courses in Exercise Science at Georgia State University.