About the Lymphatic System
The Lymphatic System is an important component of the immune system that fights against foreign substances in the body. The Lymphatic System’s function is to help keep the body’s tissues healthy by removing metabolic wastes, excess water, proteins, pathogens and toxins from the tissue via the lymph vessels. The lymph vessels connect to the lymph nodes which filters, concentrates, breaks down or stores these substances. From the lymph nodes the lymph vessels transports the fluid back to the blood (circulatory system).Approximately 40% of the fragile lymphatic vessels are subcutaneous (located just under the skin).
If the pathways become blocked, damaged, congested or severed, then the fluids can build up in the tissue leading to edema and fibrosis. If there is damage in the tissue (burns, chronic inflammation, ulceration or hematoma) then the lymph vessel system must transport the damage cells, inflammatory products and toxins away from the area. The quicker this can happen, the faster the recovery will be. Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymph Drainage can aid in this process.
What is the Dr. Vodder Method?
The Dr. Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a unique, delicate, precise and sophisticated massage technique which influences the lymphatic system directly. It was developed by Dr. Emil Vodder, and his wife Estrid, in the 1930’s in Austria. Emil and Estrid treated many pathologies and conditions with success, and taught their specialized technique through the years in Europe. There continues to be extensive clinical data recorded on the therapeutic benefits of MLD, as well as extensive research, conducted by medical doctors and research scientists on the Dr. Vodder method.
Professor Hildegard Wittlinger, who lives in Austria, was mentored by Emil and Estrid while learning the technique. Professor Wittlinger taught the technique in Canada for the first time in 1993. She travels around the world teaching this technique. In North America, certified therapists of the Dr. Vodder method review techniques every 2 years to maintain the high standard and to be the most effective in their treatments.
What are the effects of Manual Lymph Drainage Massage?
- relieves pain
- increases the movement of lymph fluid through the lymph vessels
- has a calming effect on the nervous system
- helps the body heal more quickly from injuries, surgical trauma and chronic conditions
- reduces edema through the lymph vessels
- relaxes tight muscles
Some Indications for Manual Lymph Drainage Massage:
- promotes health of the Lymph system
- promotes general relaxation
- effectively treats:
- sprains, strains, haematomas (bruises), whiplash, arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis and fractures/dislocations,
- hay fever, sinusitis, acne/eczema, leg ulcers, burns and recent scars
- headaches/migraines, stress reduction,
- lymphostatic edemas: post- mastectomy edema, lymphedema and primary lymphedema of the leg
- leg/arm edema, edema of the head, etc.
- utilized for pre-surgical preparation, post-surgical swelling/bruising and pre/post cosmetic surgery
Treatment of lymphostatic edemas of the extremities with “Dr. Vodder’s Combined Decongestive Therapy” is comprised of:
- Manual Lymph Drainage massage
- Compression Bandaging
- Remedial Exercise
- Skin Care and Hygiene
Manual Lymph Drainage Massage may be used in combination with other modalities however, some patients may receive MLD exclusively, depending on their own individual needs.
Information provided by Yvonne Rosenthal, a Registered Massage Therapist who has been certified in the “Dr. Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage” since 1993. Yvonne attends comprehensive reviews every 2 years to maintain her high quality of skill in the application of these techniques. She is one of only 3 Therapists in the Edmonton area who is trained in this technique.
The Dr. Vodder method of Manual Lymph Drainage is one of the few massage related techniques that is highly effective in treating “acute” injuries as well as chronic conditions.