
MLD @ Trayah

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
So, what is the lymphatic system and why does it need support?
Simplistically, the lymphatic system is the frontline in our body's ability to fight disease and infection by localizing foreign bodies. It is also involved in detoxifying our body and we can think of it as our own inbuilt waste disposal unit! It moves toxins, bacteria, excess fluid and metabolic waste out of our bodies as well as producing cells that fight infection.
Sometimes the lymphatic system may be compromised and there are many reasons for this. These include daily stress, fatigue, emotional shock, chemical overloading, infection, pollution, food preservatives to name but a few. However, more seriously, any form of surgery, cancer and its treatment, trauma (sprains/breaks), obesity and lack of movement can also hinder the lymphatic system and this can lead to the lifelong condition known as Lymphoedema. For more information on this please visit the page Lymphoedema@trayah by clicking the link.
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What is MLD Massage?
MLD is not a muscular massage, but essentially works above the muscle fascia on the superficial lymphatic capillaries just below the skin. It is exceptionally gentle and relaxing and stimulates fluid circulation and elimination (thus reducing swelling), supporting your body with detoxification. It can help to soften fibrotic (firm) tissue and encourages the lymphatic system to absorb and transport lymph more effectively. It also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system via the relaxation effect, reducing pain by sedating the sensory nerve endings. This in turn allows tight muscles to relax inhibiting extreme muscle tonus. A great treatment for conditions such as Fibromyalgia and there is scientific evidence available confirming this.

How can MLD help you?
MLD can be used in many ways and has a profound effect on increasing lymphatic flow. With an increase of lymph flow, immune function is increased. Harmful substances are removed from the tissues and neutralized in the nodes. It has also been shown that an increase in lymph flow enhances immune function. Here are a few situations that arise in the massage world where manual lymphatic drainage can be beneficial:
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MLD post-surgery can assist in greatly in reducing unsightly scarring and enable the body to remove unwanted fluid filled with inflammation and toxins thus helping to reduce the likelihood of infection. Swelling is reduced and the body's ability to move improved. It is fantastic for pre/post plastic/cosmetic and medical surgery (e.g. cancer treatment).
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Water/fluid retention and bloating
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Long-COVID symptoms
- During pregnancy to reduce fluid build up and oedema in the hands and legs/feet
- Fibromyalgia
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Supporting detox and an improved immune system
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Pre surgery MLD is an invaluable tool for softening and relaxing tissues that need to be operated on
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Lymphoedema (both primary and secondary) and Lipoedema - please visit Lymphoedema@Trayah if you have this diagnosis
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Dermatology (eczema, acne vulgaris, seborrhoea, psoriasis)
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Scarring
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Gastro Enterology (constipation and digestive disorders)
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Neurological disorders including Autism and Parkinson's
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Rheumatology (musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders)
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Bronchitis (asthma and allergies effecting breathing)
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I have been trained in the MLD method of Casley-Smith.
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Now proudly taking referrals from Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven, Registered Charity No 1171155.
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