Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage technique that aims to improve the circulation of lymphatic fluid in the body. The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels and nodes that plays a crucial role in immune function and fluid balance in the body.

During an MLD session, Marsha who is a trained therapist, will use gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic vessels and nodes. This can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, improve immune function, and promote overall health and well-being.

MLD is often used as a treatment for lymphedema, a condition in which lymphatic fluid accumulates in the tissues, causing swelling and discomfort. It may also be used to help manage other conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and digestive disorders.

MLD is generally considered safe and non-invasive, although it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any form of massage therapy, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) may be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including:

• Lymphedema: MLD is often used as a treatment for lymphedema, a condition in which lymphatic fluid accumulates in the tissues, causing swelling and discomfort.
• Post-surgical swelling: MLD may be helpful in reducing swelling and promoting healing following surgery.
• Fibromyalgia: MLD may help to alleviate pain and improve quality of life for people with fibromyalgia.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome: MLD may help to reduce fatigue and improve immune function in people with chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Digestive disorders: MLD may be helpful in reducing symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain in people with digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Arthritis: MLD may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Sports injuries: MLD may help to speed up recovery and reduce inflammation following sports injuries.

It is important to note that while MLD may be helpful for these conditions, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing any symptoms or have a medical condition, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any form of massage therapy.

There is currently limited research on the use of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) for long COVID symptoms. Long COVID is a condition in which people continue to experience symptoms of COVID-19 long after the initial infection has resolved.

However, MLD may be helpful in reducing inflammation and promoting immune function, which could potentially benefit people with long COVID symptoms. Additionally, MLD may help to reduce fatigue, which is a common symptom of long COVID.

It is important to note that MLD should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for long COVID. If you are experiencing symptoms of long COVID, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) may be helpful in managing the symptoms of Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is transmitted by ticks and can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and swelling.

MLD may help to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the removal of toxins from the body, which could potentially alleviate some of the symptoms of Lyme disease. Additionally, MLD may help to reduce inflammation and swelling, which can be beneficial for people with Lyme disease who experience joint pain and swelling.

It is important to note that MLD should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for Lyme disease. If you suspect that you have Lyme disease, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.