Manual Lymphatic Drainage Method Dr. Emile Vodder


Martine Zaugg ©
Martine Zaugg ©

Manual lymphatic drainage stimulates the circulation of the lymph and detoxify the body, while strengthening the immune system.

 

This treatment is very soft. It is performed with the fingers and the palms of the hands on the whole body, following the direction of the lymphatic circulation and by varying the pressure, without oil in direct contact with the skin. The drainage must be practiced gently and flexibly.


 

Lymph is a colorless liquid that circulates in the lymphatic vessels through the pulsating contractions of the muscles and blood vessels. As a waste disposal system, it drains excess fluids, toxins and cellular debris. Ganglia located along the lymphatic vessels, especially at the folds of the groin, under the armpits, on each side of the neck and on the walls of the small intestine are used to filter the lymph and eliminate the toxins it transported.

 

When the circulation of lymph is deficient, the body can weaken and become intoxicated, which may lead to various health problems: swelling of the limbs, premature aging, cellulite, heavy legs, stretch marks, etc.

The benefits of lymphatic drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage cleans and regenerates the body, accelerates healing and reduces the risk of infection. It would also be useful for treating problems related to blood and lymphatic circulation, such as varicose veins, cellulitis1 and venous insufficiency.

Manual lymphatic drainage is a technique that can be applied in many areas, such as health prevention, dermatology, pre- and postoperative treatments, edematous diseases, chronic inflammations, connective tissue diseases (rheumatism, osteoarthritis, etc.), in aesthetics (simple acne, cellulite, ect.) and in combination with other physical and / or psychic therapeutic methods.

  • Pre- and post-operative and post-traumatic treatment: Lymphatic drainage prepares and cleans the ground before surgery. It prevents stagnation and fibrous tissue formation after the procedure.
  • Healing: both in cases of postoperative scars (reduction of keloids risk, accelerated healing, decreased risk of infection), as in cases of ulcerations (decubitus, ulcers diabetic, positional ulcers, etc.). The effect is to improve the intake of restorative substances, increase circulation and increase immunological defenses.
  • Constipation: helps it to function better, resulting in better elimination and evacuation of intestinal gas.
  • Insomnia: releasing tension and accumulated fatigue; the drainage helps to find a good sleep.
  • Regenerating: gives the skin its elasticity and, therefore, its youthful look.
  • Legache: relieves leg pain, especially those caused by static edema.
  • Sinus: helps to release congested sinuses. It also affects hearing and smell.
  • Fibromyalgia: it would be very helpful in improving the health status and quality of life of the subjects with a reduction in pain, fatigue level and anxiety.