The Bayside Medical Suites offers Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) by our nurse/naturopath.
MLD is a specialised, light-touch therapy used to manage swelling. Unlike traditional massages that work deep into the muscles, MLD uses a rhythmic skin-stretching technique to encourage the movement of “stuck” fluid back into the body’s waste-clearance system. It is useful for leg or arm swelling caused my lymphoedema or in another condition called lipoedema.
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition where fluid builds up in your tissues, causing lasting swelling, usually in the arms or legs. This happens because the lymphatic system—which is responsible for draining fluid and protecting against infection—is either damaged or blocked.
Lymphoedema is common after cancer surgery.
Lipoedema is a different chronic condition involving painful, irregular fat buildup— it requires a comprehensive management plan to improve quality of life. Since there is no known cure, the goal is to reduce discomfort and maintain movement through non-surgical care like compression, lymphatic massage, low-impact exercise, weight loss, and an anti-inflammatory healthy diet.
How the Process Works:
Think of your lymphatic system as the body’s internal drainage network. When lymph nodes are compromised—whether by surgery, illness, or injury—fluid can pool in the tissues, leading to lymphoedema.
MLD addresses this by using precise, gentle movements towards the heart to:
- Boost Circulation: It encourages lymphatic vessels to pulse and move fluid more efficiently.
- Reroute Fluid: It manually guides excess fluid away from “blocked” areas and toward healthy lymph nodes that can still drain properly.
- Improve Tissue Health: It helps break down the stiffness or “hardness” that can occur when swelling is left untreated for long periods.
The main difference with standard massage:
While a standard massage is great for sore muscles, MLD is specifically for your skin and fluid systems. It is a feather-light approach that prioritizes flow over force to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Please call 0370539222 to arrange an appointment.