The human body owes its very survival and overall fitness to the various interdependent systems functioning in the body. These systems work in tandem to keep the body at the very peak of its performance. Lymphatic system under the aeges of the circulatory system is one such system. It is the "waste disposal system" within the body that clears away toxins, bacteria, Cell debris, excess water and proteins. At the same time it assists in the body’s defensive mechanism. Unlike the Circulatory system it lacks a pumping organ to assist in its mammoth task of circulating lymph in the body. Body movements and muscle

contractions provide valuable assistance to this system. The system is badly hit if the tissue fluid, or prelymph, becomes static due to toxic or mucus overload, a blocked lymph passageway as a result of surgery or injury, or certain congenital problems. This leads to the puffy appearance of certain parts of the body, a slow healing process, and problems such as allergies, headaches, Sinusitis, low energy and frequent infections. The effectiveness of the lymphatics can be enhanced by manually assisting the flow, pushing the toxins and waste products through. This is exactly what is done in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). It is an advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a range of specialised and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the Skin in the direction of lymph flow. This stimulates the Lymphatic vessels, which carry substances vital to the defence of the body, and removes waste products. The origin of this method dates back to 1932 with Emil and Estrid Vodder who practiced as physical therapists in France. They carried out much investigation on the lymph vessel system and developed a very specific series of light, rhythmic manipulations that stimulate lymph flow and fluid movement. Encouraged by their success with patients, they developed a systematic approach to treatment of the entire body, which they called 'Manual Lymph Drainage'.

The Lymphatic system is separate from the arterial and venous system and is responsible for transport of excess water, proteins and wastes from the connective tissue back to the Blood stream and ultimate removal by the kidneys. During the transportation process the lymph is cleaned, filtered and concentrated. Many immune processes occur in the lymph nodes. If the pathways become congested, blocked, damaged or severed, then fluids can build up in the connective tissue leading to edema and swelling. This can lead to abnormalities in the cells and tissues. If there are any abnormalities in the

tissues (e.g., chronic inflammation, recent surgery, congestion), then it is the role of the Lymphatic system to transport the damaged cells, inflammatory products and toxins away from the area. The quicker this can happen, the faster recovery will be. This is where MLD makes a difference and the technique of gentle massage enhances and stimulates the Lymphatic system to more rapidly remove the fluid from around the cells and in the tissues, back into the Lymphatic system for removal and ultimate cleansing.

Method of Application

Manual lymphatic drainage helps a lot in chronic illnesses. At the same time it generates deep relaxation and overall well-being. Usually, the first session of manual lymphatic drainage will consist of a consultation with the therapist, at which time the therapist can determine how many treatments you will need as well as how those treatments will need to be focused. They will most likely each last an hour, and it is important to stick to the schedule of

treatments in order to experience the optimal results that manual lymphatic drainage has to offer.In manual lymphatic drainage, a physical, occupational, or massage therapist gently stimulates the affected arm by delicately moving his or her hand and Fingers on the surface of your Skin. The therapist moves the Skin slowly, with circular or pumping motions that are generally directed toward the Shoulder. At the end of every session, the therapist applies customized bandages.

The goal is to minimize the re-accumulation of fluid and reshape the arm to look more like the unaffected arm. The therapist may also prescribe exercises to do with the bandages in place. The success of manual Lymphatic drainage is closely tied to the skill and dedication of the therapist, as well as your own bandaging skill and dedication to your treatment program. The structure and physiology of your lymphatic system may also affect the success of treatment.

There can be many benefits that occur in result of manual lymphatic drainage, ranging from immediate to long term. These benefits can include the following and more:

Promotes healing - this can include healing of acute injuries, such as sprains and fractures, as well as long-term illnesses, such as rheumatoid Arthritis. Prevents illnesses - manual lymphatic drainage can not only heal illnesses and injuries that currently exist in the patient’s body, but it can also help the body prevent illnesses from occurring in the future. Relaxation - just as with most forms of Massage Therapy, manual lymphatic drainage is a very relaxing therapy for the patient. Helps with pregnancy - many pregnant women receive manual Lymphatic drainage while they are pregnant because of the benefits it offers-it can reduce swelling and pain caused by carrying a baby. Helps heal the Skin - it can do this in a variety of ways, including helping to heal burns and scars, as well as reducing stretch marks. Promotes overall well-being - by reducing swelling, reducing pain, increasing immunity, and healing or helping many illnesses, manual lymphatic drainage is thought to increase the overall well-being of its patients.

Through the pumping and stretching effect on the lymph vessels, the method of MLD stimulates the contraction of lymph vessels, helping to move the lymph forward and drain the connective tissue. It is very useful before and after cosmetic surgery and facial procedures to decrease bruising and edema.

MLD enhances the body's ability to heal itself, and it is successfully used to promote the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains, burns, leg ulcers and scars (including stretch marks). MLD is the ultimate treatment for fluid congestion, i.e.Swollen Ankles and tired puffy eyes. It is an important component of lymphoedema treatment and conditions arising from venemous insufficiency. Other conditions that respond well to MLD are:

Sinusitis Rheumatoid Arthritis Acne Carpal tunnel syndrome Frozen shoulders Fibromyalgia Cerebral Palsy Downs Syndrome Liposuction Symptoms of Cosmetic Surgery Skin Problems Oedema after Amputation Gastrointestinal Disturbances Breast Oedema Haematomas Scar treatment Dental healthcare Glue Ear Sinus problems Radiotherapy Skin damage Burns Tinnitus Mastitis Milroys Disease Maxillary Osteotomy