MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD)

MLD is a gentle, non-invasive manual technique that stimulates lymphatic circulation. Scientific studies have shown the effectiveness of MLD both as a standalone therapy and in combination with other types of therapies. MLD originated in France in 1932 as a technique developed by Emil and Estrid Vodder. Over time, it has become the most well-known manual technique for improving lymphatic flow and circulation in tissues.

Decongestive (swelling-reducing) effect

Pain-relieving effect

Any type of body swelling (except that caused by heart or kidney failure) can be effectively treated with Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). The lymphatic system is like a “one-way street” that transports lymph fluid from the tissues back into the bloodstream. It acts as the body’s waste removal network. Waste products—or toxins and proteins—are byproducts of the body’s metabolic processes. The lymphatic system works to eliminate these waste substances. The MLD massage technique creates a pumping effect in the tissues, which can accelerate the rhythm of the lymphatic system up to 20 times faster than its normal pace. As a result of this enhanced drainage effect, the normal functioning of the tissues is restored.

An example of MLD’s pain-relieving effect is how a person tries to ease the pain and itching caused by a mosquito bite by scratching. Scratching stimulates large areas of the skin, thereby reducing the sensation of pain—similarly, MLD stimulates the lymphatic system to alleviate pain. With MLD, pain receptors are transported into the lymphatic system more quickly, meaning they are no longer active in the tissue. Any prolonged pain—such as migraines, acute injuries, Sudeck’s syndrome, etc.—is often an indication for MLD therapy.

Effect on the sympathetic nervous system

Effect on the immune system

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is deeply calming. Patients often fall asleep within minutes during the therapy session. Smooth and rhythmic hand movements by a skilled therapist are essential for effective treatment. If you're experiencing high levels of stress, it is recommended to try 6 x 30-minute MLD sessions, which serve as a very effective preventive method against burnout syndrome.

MLD helps accelerate the transport of bacteria and allergens to areas where the body's defense system is located (such as lymph nodes), and to areas where a high level of lymphatic drainage enhances the responsiveness of lymphocytes and macrophages. Macrophages can move more quickly through the bloodstream to reach their target and engage in phagocytosis (the body's immune defense process), which in turn strengthens the immune system.

Indications for MLD:

Contraindications:

Muscle tension and pain
Accelerated recovery after training
Irritation of nerve tissue
Migraine
Chronic pain syndrome (e.g., CRPS – Complex regional pain syndrome)
Swelling due to pregnancy or hormonal causes
Swelling caused by injuries, accidents, or trauma (tears, fractures, large scars)
Swelling related to neurological diseases (Multiple Sclerosis, hemiplegia)
Acne vulgaris – for reducing scarring (~20 sessions)
Rosacea
Couperose
Swelling in the facial and eye areas
General strengthening of the immune system
Swelling caused by burns
Congenital dysfunction of the lymphatic system (primary lymphedema)
Psoriasis
Fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis (non-inflammatory stage)
Chronic venous insufficiency, thrombosis, chronic venous ulcers, erysipelas (non-acute stage)
Lipedema
Postoperative swelling (including cosmetic surgery, liposuction, and other plastic surgery procedures)
Swelling after oncological treatment (surgeries involving lymph node removal, radiation therapy)

Acute infections (erysipelas, flu)
Severe stage III and IV heart failure
Established hypotension (<105/60 mmHg)
Acute thrombosis or acute thrombophlebitis
Unexplained skin changes
Severe kidney diseases
Age over 80 (vascular elasticity, risk of thrombosis)

Relative contraindications in the neck area:

Established sinus bradycardia (<50/min) (slow heart rate)
Established arrhythmia
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Carotid sinus syndrome
Claustrophobia

Contraindications for the pelvic and abdominal area:

Acute diseases of the pelvic and abdominal region
Unexplained disorders in the pelvic and abdominal region
Chronic diseases of the large intestine
Spastic constipation (cramping-related constipation)
Pregnancy
Menstruation

You can choose between two session lengths:

25 min / €25
55 min / €40