Manual Lymphatic Drainage Dr Emile Vodder Method
Martine Zaugg © — Manual lymphatic drainage stimulates lymph circulation and detoxifies the body while strengthening the immune system.
This massage technique is very gentle. It is performed with the fingers and palms of the hands over the whole body, following the direction of lymphatic circulation and varying the pressure, without oil in direct contact with the skin. The drainage must be performed with gentleness and suppleness.
Lymph and circulation
Lymph is a colourless fluid that circulates in the lymphatic vessels thanks to the pulsating contractions of the muscles and blood vessels. It drains excess fluid, toxins and cellular debris. Nodes located along the lymphatic vessels, particularly in the groin, under the arms, on each side of the neck and on the walls of the small intestine, filter the lymph and eliminate the toxins it carries. Deficient lymph circulation can weaken and intoxicate the body, leading to various health problems: swollen limbs, premature ageing, cellulite, heavy legs, stretch marks, etc.
Benefits
Lymphatic drainage can help with:
- Pre- and post-operative and post-traumatic treatment: before surgery it helps prepare and cleanse the terrain. Afterwards, it prevents stagnation and the formation of fibrous tissue and aids healing.
- Healing: both in cases of post-operative scars (reduced risk of keloids, accelerated healing, reduced risk of infection) and in cases of ulceration (bedsores, diabetic ulcers, position ulcers, etc.). Drainage improves the supply of restorative substances, increases circulation and immunological defences.
- Constipation: helps the intestine produce more mucus and function better, leading to better elimination and evacuation of intestinal gas.
- Insomnia: releases accumulated tension and fatigue, helps restore good sleep.
- Regenerating: restores the skin's elasticity and firmness.
- Leg problems: relieves leg pain, especially that due to static oedema.
- Sinuses: helps clear congested sinuses. It also has a positive effect on hearing and smell.
- Fibromyalgia: it would significantly improve the health status and quality of life of patients with a reduction in pain, morning fatigue and anxiety.
Session format
Very gentle manual massage, without oil.
Contraindications
- Thrombosis or phlebitis
- Acute infection
- Cardiac decompensation
- Serious progressive illness