Manual Lymphatic Therapy in Regina

Manual Lymphatic Therapy is a type of osteopathic treatment that focuses on increasing lymph flow and drainage to areas of congestion and pain. The therapist uses gentle, rhythmic ‘massage’ techniques to help open up lymphatic pathways and improve the overall functioning of the lymphatic system. This therapy can be beneficial for those who suffer from lymphedema, chronic pain, or other conditions that can cause congestion and blockages in the lymphatic system. Manual Lymphatic Therapy can help to improve the overall health and well-being of the patient by relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing.

Manual Lymphatic Therapy is a technique developed by the Vodders (Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid) in 1936 in Paris for treatment of swollen lymph nodes. It is specifically focused on the lymph vessels and helps the flow of lymphatic fluid. Manual Lymphatic Therapy should not be confused with a traditional massage.

One of Andrew T. Still’s, the founder of osteopathy, biggest philosophy was “the rule of the artery is supreme”, meaning that fluid flow was the key in creating lasting health. 90% of blood is returned to the heart by the venous system and 10% by the  lymphatic system inextricably linking the cardiac and lymphatic system. 

There are two types of lymphatic circulation - superficial lymphatic, which we work during manual lymphatic therapy, and the deep system, which is activated by contracting muscles (exercise). If there is buildup of fluid in an area we tend to have inflammation which signals to our body we are in pain.

Engaging the lymphatic system can increase it up to 20x its normal output. Our lymphatic system is broken up into two main drainage ducts: the right and left terminus just under your medial clavicles. The right side moves and filters around 300ml of lymph fluid a day and the left side anywhere in between 1.5-4L of lymph fluid. Our lymphatic system is part of our immune system that helps remove trapped proteins and toxins in our system. If our lymphatic system is backed up, we can see an increase in pain in that area. Our goal with Manual Lymphatic Therapy is to help open up pathways for fluid flow and increase lymph flow and drainage to areas of congestion and pain. 

Manual Lymphatic Therapy may be able to help reduce your symptoms and improve your overall health! Please contact our office at (306) 580 7796 or book online to learn more and book your appointmnet.