What is Manual Lymph Drainage?


Manual Lymph Drainage

Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymph Drainage was developed in the 1930s by Dr. Emil Vodder and Estrid Vodder in Europe. It is a gentle but powerful treatment used to cleanse the body, particularly the connective tissue. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) reduces pain, relaxes the patient, and improves the immune system. Its therapeutic benefits have been researched for over 60 conditions, benefiting those with acute or chronic illnesses, as well as those interested in health and wellness.

As part of Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), MLD is considered the gold standard treatment for lymphedema.

Benefits of Manual Lymph Drainage

  • Removes metabolic wastes, excess water, toxins, bacteria, and foreign substances from tissues
  • Reduces pain signals to the brain
  • Relaxes the sympathetic nervous system, relieving stress
  • Enhances the immune system
  • Accelerates healing from injuries, surgeries, chronic conditions, and edema
  • Minimizes scar formation

Indications for Manual Lymph Drainage

Surgical

  • Post-mastectomy edema
  • Post-hysterectomy edema
  • Varicose veins
  • Post-surgical swelling
  • Pre- and post-surgery recovery
  • Post-amputation
  • Post-vein stripping

Musculoskeletal

  • Sprains/strains
  • Muscle/ligament tears
  • Fractures/dislocations
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Tendonitis
  • Neck pain/whiplash
  • Chronic pain

Ear, Nose & Throat

  • Sinusitis
  • Tinnitus
  • Meniere’s disease

Neurological

  • Tension headaches
  • Migraines
  • Neuralgia, RSD
  • Carpal Tunnel syndrome
  • Stress reduction

Dermatological

  • Acne/eczema
  • Leg ulcers
  • Burns/scars

Other

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Toxic poisoning
  • Scleroderma