LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT) is a hands on method of lymphatic drainage. The training I have covered is developed by Bruno Chickly, MD.
Using exacting and precise manual techniques, LDT allows therapists to detect specific rhythm, depth and quality of the lymph flow anywhere in the body.
Therapists work with flat hands, to gently stimulate wave like movements of the lymph as it flows in the body.
When the lymph system is flowing properly, it functions to filter out toxins and foreign substances, detoxify and regenerate tissue, maintaining a healthy immune system, and to help the body to heal itself.
Although the vessels of the lymphatic system carry lymph, the fluid is not pumped around the body as blood is. It is moved along by contractions of muscles surrounding the lymph vessels.
Lymphatic drainage is a gentle hands on therapy designed to activate and cleanse the human fluid system, like a moving filtration system.
The origins of lymphatic drainage therapy have early influences, from a Canadian osteopath during the 1920's, Frederic Millard, and more recently, Danish massage practitioner Emil Vodder who developed a precise manual technique for lymph drainage.
Bruno Chickly teaches in a way that students feel and interact with the lymphatic flow in a similar manner to the cranial fluid, similar to the approach of Craniosacral Therapy.
Lymphatic drainage helps to activate the movement of lymph, in this very fluid and moving environment .Unlike the blood circulation, lymph circulation is a fluid compartment with a slow rhythm, low velocity, and low pressure.
The main actions of LDT are:
In the liquid/blood: Activates lymph function and circulation. Indirectly stimulates the circulation of the body, and activates venous circulation. Lymph drainage reduces oedema through these effects.
In the immune system: The passage of lymph into the lymph nodes stimulates the immune system.
In the nervous system: Decreases the sympathetic response. Stimulates the parasympathetic tone, which leads to relaxation, and aids in pain reduction.
Some of the benefits of Lymphatic drainage therapy include:
