Manual
Lymph Drainage was first discovered and developed by Dr. Emil and
Estrid Vodder in France in the 1920’s and 1930’s. They
premiered it in Paris in 1936 to great acclaim and went on to teach
their method
in many countries all over the world.
Manual
Lymph Drainage now sits comfortably in both the medical world and
the complementary
world and is an accepted part of rehabilitation units, physiotherapy
departments and massage departments.
The
unique method that the Vodders’ discovered is an exceedingly light skin manipulation
that uses no oils or powders. Moving the skin gently over the underlying
tissues triggers the musculature of the lymph vessel system to contract
more frequently – increasing the absorption of excess fluid
and waste products.
The
many effects that MLD has on the body started as theories and anecdotal
observations.
Since the 1950’s most have been investigated and papers have
been published by the Vodders, Wittlingers, Foldi, Mislin and others
making MLD one of the most investigated therapies available.
As
Emil Vodder himself said, " Our therapeutic treatment often
produced surprising and rapid results. Positive effects were always
obtained if correct, slow
and rhythmic movements were employed - whether we were treating the
patient for skin rejuvenation, haematomas caused by accidents, eczema,
varicose veins or ulcerous legs."
