Origin of LDT

The development of manual techniques for the lymphatic system has been started since early 1800s, adopting heavy massage and movement at that time. Alexander of Winiwarter (1848-1910), a surgeon from Belgium, was one of the first physicians to introduce in hospitals the use of manual techniques for draining lymphatic edemas. He also proposed the use of heavy manual techniques with other “conservative” modalities including skin care, hygiene, external compression, remedial exercises and the treatment of any associated conditions. Then Frederic P. Millard, D. O., (1878-1951), followed the ideas of A. T. Still, father of osteopathy , put together a specific work on the lymphatic vessels and nodes. He used the term “lymphatic drainage” for his manual technique, and published a few articles.

Emil Vodder, Ph.D., (1896-1986), a Danish massage practitioner and doctor of philosophy (1928), had detailed study in lymphatic system and developed his technique, called Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), to treat conditions such as chronic sinusitis and diffuse acne. His technique was revealed to cosmetology meetings at that time and there were numerous schools of MLD and some recognition for his technique.

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT) was developed by Dr. Bruno Chikly, a French physician. Dr. Chikly further improved the traditional techniques by allowing the practitioners to attune manually with the specific rhythm, pressure, quality and direction of the lymph flow.

What is Lymphatic system and why is it important ?

The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is important to our body’s ability to detoxify and regenerate cell tissues. The lymphatic system filters out toxins, bacteria, virus and harmful waste substances from the cells and carries crucial substances to every cell of the body.  For the body cells to function properly, the cells need to receive adequate nutrients and oxygen, and removed efficiently with their waste and toxin. When the circulation of the lymph fluid is blocked, the immune system of the body is compromised and the toxins are accumulated in the cells. It affects the proper function of the cells and the health of the body.

The circulatory system of blood uses the pumping action of the heart to circulate the blood around the body, whereas the lymphatic system relies on hundreds of tiny muscular units (lymphangions) contracting throughout the body to propel the lymph which can then eliminate waste products. When the action of these tiny muscular units is hindered this can lead to the stagnation of lymphatic circulation. If the lymph circulation stagnates due to injury or infection, toxins accumulate and cellular and cellular metabolism is significantly compromised. The resulting increase in acid and toxins within the tissues cause pain, tension, and edema. These substances along with the edema need to be removed quickly from the interstitial fluid in order to promote proper tissue healing and restore proper pain-free movement.

How is LDT performed ?

LDT is a systematic approach to stimulate the recirculation and function of the lymphatic system. Practitioner gentle manipulations to stimulate lymph flow. The techniques consist of applying gentle pressure in precise locations along the lymphatic system to stimulate the lymphatic flow. Practitioners are trained to perform a lymphatic full body diagnosis, which consists of “mapping” the superficial and deep lymphatic pathways with their hands to assess the specific directions of lymph flow and areas of congestion and fibrosis before, during and after treatment. They can manually determine efficient alternative pathways in the presence of fluid stagnation and interact with the fluid at different levels in the body, from the most superficial cutaneous circulation to that of the mucosa, muscles, tendons, periosteum and viscera.

What problems can LDT help ?

LDT is effective for the following conditions :

Acute and chronic edema and hematomas, Swelling after surgery or injury, Headache / Migraine, Whiplash, Sport injury, Sprain/strain injuries, common Orthopedic problems – e.g. trauma, hematoma, dislocation, subluxation, ligament and meniscus pathologies, fracture, muscle spasm, scars /fibrosis, neck and back pain; Varicose vein, Arteritis, Intermittent Claudication, Post Dental Surgery, Acne Vulgaris, Chronic and Allergic Eczema, Skin complexion, Adiposis, Cellulite, Stress, Fatigue, Chronic pain , Chronic fatique syndrome, Sleeping disorder, Detoxification : fasting, dieting, tobacco withdrawal, withdrawal from other substance dependency, Menstruation pain, Chronic sinusitis, For any surgery involving the removal of major lymph nodes – e.g. Post-mastectomy, Post-prostatectomy, Post-hysterectomy, Post-nephrectomy, Tumor Removal, For Burns and their surgical treatment