Manual Lymphatic Drainage = MLD for short
This is a gentle, non-invasive manual technique that has a powerful effect on the body. Research in Australia, Europe and North America has proven its efficiency as a stand-alone treatment and in combination with other therapies.
Developed in France in 1932 by Emil and Estrid Vodder MLD has grown to be the most well known manual technique to assist lymph flow and aid in drainage of tissues.
The skin is stretched and torqued in a specific manner, based on scientific, physiological principles that have proven to encourage lymph flow. If performed correctly with the correct pressure, direction and speed, this can greatly enhance recovery and facilitate drainage. It also has profound effects on all systems in the body.
In the course of medical history, the lymphatic system went largely unrecognized. This most likely can be attributed to the transparent nature of lymph, and the difficultly in seeing lymph vessels during dissection. The Greeks witnessed some lymph vessels: primarily the ones in the intestines (chyliferous vessels), because they carry more visible, milk-like lymph, and probably the thoracic duct- the largest lymphatic vessel. Lymph possibly comes from the Latin word “Limpa” meaning limpid, clear.
The lymphatic system parallels the circulatory apparatus, which provides one way for the blood to leave the heart, the arterial system, and two ways for it to return-to-the venous and lymphatic pathways.
The lymphatic system is a second pathway back to the heart, parallel to the venous system.
Course Outline
Pre “In Class”
- Online notes need to be read and knowledge sections should be answered.
Zoom Meeting
- Approximately 1 week prior to the in class portion of the course
In Person Practicum
Day 1 AM
- In class review of the online theory notes
- MLD Demonstration
- Further theory information and notes that were not available online
PM
- Treatment Exchange among students (4hrs)
Day 2 AM
- Treatment on Male Volunteer
PM
- Treatment on Female Volunteer
- Presentation of Certificates
IT IS STRONGLY SUGGESTED THAT YOU HAVE A NOTEBOOK HANDY AS YOU GO THROUGH THE COURSE TO WRITE DOWN ANY QUESTIONS YOU ARE GOING TO WANT TO ASK WHEN TEACHER ARRIVES AS WELL AS TO HIGHLIGHT THINGS THAT YOU WANT TO DEFINITELY REMEMBER FOR THE FUTURE.