Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic technique (Vodder) that encourages the natural movement of lymph into the lymph nodes, where the fluid will filter out of the body.
Lymph, often confused with extra interstitial fluid, is fluid that transports proteins, water, cells, waste products, foreign substances, and fat through the lymphatic system. Most notably, it transports infection-fighting white blood cells.
The lymphatic system does not have a pumping mechanism like the circulatory system. Instead, it relies on external activities such as movement, deep breathing, exercise, and more to push lymph along.
A certified manual lymphatic drainage therapist will mimic the pumping actions typically applied to the lymph vessels. Ultimately increasing the movement of lymph and interstitial fluid.
Increase the benefits of massage by receiving treatment from us more often.
We currently do not offer walk-in massage or MLD appointments. To ensure each client receives the best treatment, all appointments must be booked 8-12 hours before the appointment start time.
However, you may contact us to see whether or not there are any last-minute massage cancellations.
In the privacy of the treatment room, you and your massage therapist will go over your intake form and reasons for seeking massage therapy or MLD. You will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns or to ask any questions you may have about massage therapy or MLD. Your massage therapist will then briefly review a plan for your massage therapy session. If you have any questions, feel free to speak up.
Good communication is key to achieving the best results during your massage appointment. This is your massage. Be sure to give feedback to help your therapist meet your specific needs.
Communicate with your therapist if you feel any pain or discomfort or if you have any concerns during your massage. Some types of massage that work on deep layers of muscle and tissue, such as deep tissue or sports massage, will require more feedback to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.
After a massage, you should feel relaxed and mellow. That has to do with the changes in neurochemicals like serotonin and endorphins.
You should also feel some relief after a massage. Sometimes you may experience 24-48 hours of soreness, depending on how much pressure your LMT used. Bruising from cupping and IASTM can occur and may appear on the skin for a few days. The bruising is a result of the inflammatory process being activated which will contribute to healing.
Many people expect to be cured in an hour. An important question to ask yourself: “How long did it take to get this pain?” For many conditions, it’s a cumulative effect, and you may need several consecutive treatments. Please keep in mind that true healing and wellness are a journey.
It is best to not eat for at least 90 minutes before your massage treatment and only have a light meal afterward.
The body needs time to digest your food. The digestion process directs the blood flow away from your peripheral tissues and concentrates it on the digestive tract. Massage draws the blood flow to the area tissues being worked on and therefore draws the blood away from the digestive tract causing poor digestion and possible discomfort.
Rest, hydrate, and stretch lightly on the day of your appointment.
You can return to regular activity the following day but continue to hydrate. Following an MLD session, your lymphatic system will be more active for about 72 hours. Staying hydrated aids in lymphatic flow during this time.
EST. Please allow up to 24 hours for a response to your inquiry. Emails sent during non- office hours will be responded to on the next business day.