The Lymphatic or “Lymph” System is the garbage disposal system of the body. It is often referred to as the “second circulatory system” and flows throughout the entire body.The Lymphatic System is a major part of the immune system. It is through the Lymphatic System that toxic substances are expelled the body through the bloodstream.  Trained therapists use the technique (Manual Lymphatic Drainage or MLD) to stimulate circulation through the lymph vessels and ducts around the body. Its effects and benefits are profound and many can give credence to its powerful effect. The concept of Lymph Drainage treatment  was developed by Dr. Emil Vodder in the 1930`s.  He pioneered the technique used by so many Lymphatic Drainage Therapists today.

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage …….

• promotes healing - This can include healing of acute injuries, such as sprains and fractures, as well as long-term illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• prevents illnesses – Manual lymphatic drainage can not only help heal illnesses and injuries that currently exist in the patient’s body, but it can also help the body prevent illnesses from occurring in the future.
• relaxation and stress relief - Just as with most forms of massage therapy, manual lymphatic drainage is a very relaxing therapy for the patient.
• helps with pregnancy - Many pregnant women receive manual lymphatic drainage while they are pregnant because of the benefits it offers-it can reduce swelling and pain caused by carrying a baby.
• helps heal the skin - It can do this in a variety of ways, including helping to heal burns and scars, as well as reducing stretch marks.
• promotes overall well-being - By reducing swelling, reducing pain, increasing immunity, and healing or helping many illnesses, manual lymphatic drainage is thought to increase the overall well-being of its patients.

Some of the less pleasant after effects, however, may be a feeling of tiredness and lethargy as well as various aches and pains. A dull headache is not uncommon.

There may be slight nausea, an increase in nasal discharge, possibly a stronger-than-normal body odour and even diarrohea. These are all caused by the extra toxins that have been liberated and are moving round the body, and need to be flushed from the body.

Drinking plenty of water will help flush them and reduce any of the less pleasant effects, which will only be short term.

What are Lymph Nodes?

All the small and medium-sized lymph vessels open into lymph nodes which are found in strategic positions throughout the body. The lymph drains through a number of nodes before reentering the bloodstream. These nodes vary considerably in size.  Some are as small as a pin head and others the size of a large pea.

The swelling of these nodes is common in inflammation and malignant disease.  Enlarged nodes are usually felt by your therapist during the course of a routine Remedial or Swedish massage.  Palpation or feeling of the neck, armpits and the groin area is an important part of clinical investigation.  Answers to a series of questions will usually confirm the therapists suspicions of their presence.

What causes swollen Lymph Nodes?

The main cause of swollen lymph nodes is stress. Other causes will be lack of exercise, improper diet, environmental toxins, trauma and infections.