What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), also known as Manual Lymph Therapy, is NOT a traditional massage but a specialized treatment. MLD is a gentle massage using specific, repetitive, light hand strokes on the skin stimulating the lymph nodes. MLD is used to assist the lymphatic system when it is overwhelmed, such as with lymphedema, post-surgery, stubborn illnesses, edema, sinus congestion, sprains, and many other medical conditions. MLD allows for excess fluids, lymph, proteins, etc., to be moved from the effected tissues and flushed through the lymphatic system. This results in reduced swelling, reduced pain and immune system support as the lymphatic system is part of the immune system.
What can MLD assist with?
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Lymphedema, Lipedema
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Edema
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Oncology
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Boost and support the Immune System
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Pre and Post Surgeries
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Cosmetic Surgeries, Liposuction
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Fibromyalgia
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Sprains
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Chronic Pain and Fatigue
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Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Tendonitis, Bursitis, etc.
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Helps heal burns and scars
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Reduces anxiety, tension, pain
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Lyme Disease
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Diabetes
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RSD, MS
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Stress Reduction
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Detoxification by helping the lymphatic system remove waste.
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and much more.
MLD is NOT recommended for:
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Deep Vein Thrombosis, Blood Clots
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Cellulitis
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Fever
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Congestive Heart Failure
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Hyperthyroidism
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Some cases of Diabetes
What is Oncology Massage?
Oncology massage does not heal cancer, but it can provide significant benefits for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Oncology massage is a comfort-oriented massage that can safely be administered to people with cancer or post-cancer regardless of the severity of their condition. It is a specialized form of message therapy designed to safely accommodate the needs of people with cancer focusing on comfort, relaxation and symptom relief. Thoughtful care and training has gone into learning about metastasis, making adjustments for clients who are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or have a history of cancer, surgical/medical procedures and those who are at risk or have lymphedema.
What is Complete Decongestive Therapy?
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a combination of four components: Manual Lymph Drainage, Compression Therapy, specific Decongestive Exercises and Skin Care for lymphedema and other conditions.
Who benefits from Complete Decongestive Therapy?
CDT is primarily beneficial for individuals with lymphedema, a condition characterized by chronic swelling due to lymphatic fluid buildup in the superficial tissues of the body. Examples are:
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Lymphedema Patients-Especially those with primary (genetic) or secondary (due to surgery, radiation, or infection) lymphedema.
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Post-Cancer Treatment Patients-Those who have undergone lymph node removal or radiation therapy, particularly breast cancer survivors.
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Chronic Venous Insufficiency Patients-People with poor vein function leading to swelling.
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Lipedema Patients-those with abnormal fat accumulation in the legs, often accompanied by swelling.
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Post-Surgical or Post-Traumatic Edema-Individuals recovering from surgery (ie. cosmetic or joint replacement) or injuries that cause persistent swelling.
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Patients with immune or inflammatory disorders-Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that cause swelling may benefit from CDT.
Juli's passion is helping people. She has a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Studies and a Master of Science in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma. She is a Hodgkin's Lymphoma survivor and loves applying a therapeutic approach to helping people with their wellness needs and goals. She is currently cancer free.