MLD LONDON CLINIC
Harper Road Osteopath Clinic London SE1
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle type of massage designed to stimulate the lymphatic vessels underneath the skin without causing any friction.
This treatment benefits people suffering from lymphoedema, swelling caused by pregnancy or rheumatoid arthritis, or those wanting a gentle detox to help boost their immune system. A systematic review by Ramirez et al (2021) found that MLD may also benefit those with fibromyalgia.
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where the lymphatic system has either developed abnormally (primary lymphoedema) or damage has occurred due to surgery, injury, immobility, or infection (secondary lymphoedema). It results in swelling (oedema) in the usually affecting the arms and legs. With no permanent ‘cure’, this accumulation of fluid requires regular management through; movement, a healthy diet and lifestyle, wearing compression garments, and manual lymphatic drainage massage. MLD prevents the build-up of lymph and reduces vulnerability to infection.
So, what exactly is the lymphatic system and why is it so important?
The lymphatic system forms part of the immune system and is a separate network of vessels found throughout the body in which lymph flows. Lymph carries lymphocytes and macrophages that defend the body from invasion from bacteria/viruses and other micro-organisms that don’t belong there. Once the lymph cells have done the job of breaking down and filtering these invaders, toxins, and any large proteins too large to be handled by the smaller less permeable capillaries of the blood stream, it is delivered back into the bloodstream. More simply, lymph carries nutrients and proteins to blood and tissues and collects toxins and harmful substances out of the blood to render them harmless.
What does a MLD treatment involve?
MLD involves very gentle and rhythmic circular movements across the main lymphatic collection areas and the vessels in between them. You do not need to undress as the treatment can be given through light clothing as there are no lotions involved. You should feel a deep sense of relaxation; there is nothing robust or uncomfortable about this treatment.
MLD is a precise, light-touch massage technique that works to:
- Stimulate the lymphatic system
- Encourage the natural drainage of lymph
- Reduce swelling and edema
- Improve overall circulation
- Support the body’s detoxification processes
- Enhance immune function
Why come to Harper Road Osteopaths for MLD?
For many years now, we have been providing Perrin Technique from our London Bridge clinic. Perrin Technique is a treatment which involves lymphatic drainage of the neuraxis (the central nervous system) to treat the symptoms of ME/CFS/Post Viral Fatigue, and more recently Long Covid. Increasingly we have received enquiries from people asking for a preventative or ‘detox’ treatment in the form of MLD.
Osteopathy is a treatment approach which aims to promote the body’s natural healing mechanisms and maximise health. We take a holistic view of health, acknowledging the impact of each system on an individuals overall state of wellbeing. With this in mind, it felt only natural to offer MLD as a separate treatment for our patients.
Benefits of MLD
Manual Lymphatic Drainage can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions:
- Post-surgical recovery: Helps reduce swelling and promote healing after operations
- Lymphedema management: Assists in reducing fluid buildup in limbs
- Chronic fatigue syndrome: May help alleviate symptoms and improve energy levels
- Fibromyalgia: Can provide relief from pain and stiffness
- Skin conditions: Supports skin health and may improve certain dermatological issues
- Headache relief: May help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines and headaches
- Pregnancy-related swelling: Offers safe relief for expectant mothers experiencing edema
Our Approach
At our London SE1 clinic on Borough High Street, our practitioners, including osteopath Lorna, integrate MLD with osteopathic principles to deliver a holistic treatment experience. Each session is tailored to the individual needs of the patient, ensuring the most effective results.By combining MLD with osteopathy, we aim to:
- Address the root causes of lymphatic congestion
- Improve overall body function and mobility
- Enhance the body’s natural healing processes
- Provide a comprehensive approach to health and well-being
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to improve your overall health, Manual Lymphatic Drainage at Harper Road Osteopaths can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.
What else can MLD help treat?
Long COVID
MLD has shown promising results in treating symptoms associated with long COVID:
- Helps reduce persistent cough and breathlessness
- Improves fatigue and energy levels
- May alleviate cognitive issues like brain fog and difficulty focusing
- Supports overall recovery from respiratory issues related to COVID-19
- Is the Perrin Technique the answer to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long Covid
- Long Covid: The Lasting Impact
Other Conditions
MLD has also been found effective for:
- Fibromyalgia: Helps with pain relief, stiffness, and sleep quality
- Chronic fatigue syndrome: May alleviate symptoms and boost energy
- Post-surgical recovery: Reduces swelling and promotes healing
- Migraines and headaches: Can provide relief from pain and frequency
- Skin conditions: Supports overall skin health
- Pregnancy-related swelling: Offers safe relief for expectant mothers
- Lyme’s Disease
Additional Benefits
MLD has been reported to:
- Improve circulation and reduce swelling
- Enhance the body’s natural detoxification processes
- Boost the immune system
- Provide relief for sinus congestion
- Reduce pressure on nerve tissue
- Promote relaxation and stress reduction
Research is ongoing, particularly regarding the effectiveness of MLD for long COVID symptoms. Early results and anecdotal evidence suggest that MLD may be a valuable non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical approach to addressing various symptoms associated with long COVID and other chronic conditions.
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WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?
Our Osteopath Clinic is now based at 90 Borough High Street, SE1 1LL. We have expanded and now have two treatment rooms, allowing us to offer more osteopathy and sports massage appointments in London Bridge.
Full details of how to access the clinic can be found on our Clinic & Fees page.