Q: Is Lymph Drainage Therapy a deep massage?

A: No, although it may seem that deep massage would assist in decreasing the hardness following surgery, it would actually increase the circulation to the treated areas making it harder to evacuate the lymph fluid. Even though MLD is extremely light work, it is the most efficient way to reduce swelling and bruising. It is based on scientific knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the Lymphatic System.

 

Q: Does MLD help get rid of bruising?

A: Yes. That is one of the best applications of MLD. Bruises are an accumulation of cellular debris and old red blood cells in the tissue. Lymph Drainage Therapy greatly reduces the healing time for bruises by cleansing the extracellular spaces where these substances are trapped.

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Q: Is Lymph Drainage Massage Painful?

A: Performed properly it is not painful. The Vodder Technique is the most respected method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) over the world. It is NOT a traditional massage. It is a specialized, advanced bodywork modality that uses a gentle, rotating, pumping motion that moves the lymph fluid without increasing blood circulation. Increasing blood circulation with deep massage and heat can actually inhibit the movement of lymph fluid by changing the permeability of the lymph and blood vessels. Do NOT receive a general therapeutic, deep tissue, or Swedish Massage in lieu of MLD.

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Q: When should I start my massages?

A: This depends on your doctor. Some recommend you start within 24 to 48 hours after surgery and some recommend 3 days after surgery etc. Based on our experience, patients starting their treatment after between the 3rd and 5th day achieve the quickest and best results.

 

 

Q: How many sessions do I need?

A: Post-Surgical: Each patient is different, and some tend to recover sooner than others. Some bodies retain more fluid and develop more fibrosis as well. When the massage therapist initially meets with you and evaluates your procedure, she will be able to tell you in more detail. We recommend about 18 sessions although some may be more and some less. That is just our average with most clients.

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Q: Does MLD help get rid of bruising?

A: Yes. That is one of the best applications of MLD. Bruises are an accumulation of cellular debris and old red blood cells in the tissue. Lymph Drainage Therapy greatly reduces the healing time for bruises by cleansing the extracellular spaces where these substances are trapped.

 

Q: How many treatments will I need?

A: It is ideal to receive at least one or two MLD treatments prior to a procedure. There are many different things that can influence healing. Some patients get 1-6 treatments postoperatively and that is enough, especially if the only area of surgery was the legs, knees, or flanks. People getting surgery on the abdomen often find they require up to 12 sessions.

 

 

Q: What is an MLD treatment like?

A: After an initial consultation, you will undress, and lie down on a massage table in the face-up position, covered modestly with a sheet.

 

The atmosphere is the same as a massage treatment room with dim lighting and soft music. Although you are in a massage setting, it is important to understand that MLD is a specific form of bodywork designed to efficiently move lymph fluid in your body. MLD is completely different from deep tissue, Swedish, or relaxation massage that you may be expecting or have had in the past. Stimulation of the Lymphatic System activates the parasympathetic nervous system producing an automatic physiological relaxation response.

 

 

Q: How soon after my procedure can my MLD begin?

A: It is possible to begin within 24 hours. Most people wait until they can comfortably drive themselves to appointments.

 

 

Q: It has been over a month since I had my procedure. Is it too late to begin MLD?

A: No. The healing process after these types of procedures is several months. If it has been over a month since your procedure you can still get the soothing benefits of MLD. If it has been over 6 months since your procedure and you are still feeling lumps and hardness you should contact your doctor to make sure you have not developed fibrosis or a seroma.

 

 

Q: Do I need a prescription for MLD?

A: No. Although many doctors recommend MLD, it is also perfectly fine to self-refer. If you had any questions or queries regarding Post Surgical Lymphatic Drainage, please do not hesitate to contact us.