Shire Manual Lymph Drainage

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) was developed in France in 1932 by Emil and Estrid Vodder and has grown to be the most well known manual technique to assist lymph flow and aid in drainage of tissues. It 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 efficacy as a stand-alone treatment and in combination with other therapies.

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 systems in the body.

Therapists must undergo biennial recertification to maintain their qualification as a Vodder Therapist.

Low Level Laser therapy (LLLT) is the treatment of various conditions using laser to bring about a photochemical reaction at a cellular level. The laser light penetrates into tissue where it is absorbed by cells and converted into energy that influences the course of metabolic processes.

The LTU-904 models are infra-red lasers operating at a wavelength of 904 nanometers. This invisible wavelength penetrates deeply into tissue (much deeper than the often used red laser operating in the visible red region).

Specific advantages of the LTU-904 laser therapy include:-

Lymph Taping is a part of the Medical Taping Concept and is very well suited to stimulate lymphatic drainage. Medical taping began in the 1970s in Asia. The body's own recovery process is stimulated by applying an elastic tape material. The special tape has the same elasticity as the skin and by applying the tape in accordance with the anatomy of the lymphatic system as well as positioning the body in a way that the tape is stretched, lymphatic drainage is stimulated 24 hours a day. The tape lifts the skin a little through which the lumen of the lymph capillaries are opened. The pressure on the blood vessels is reduced. Moreover, the tape becomes a conductor of interstitial fluid.

Hot stone massage is a style of massage where warmed stones (made of basalt) are used to massage the body. Penetrating heat from smooth oiled, warmed stones is used to relieve tense muscles and sore joints. The heat of the stones warms the skin, which allows for the absorption of moisturising and therapeutic oils, while simultaneously allowing the therapist to work deep into the deepest layers of muscle.

Massage increases the circulation and stimulates the immune system by transferring more oxygen and nutrients to the organs and tissues. Warm stones cause vaso-dilation which means that even more oxygen and nutrients are being circulated than through traditional massage. This increases all the associated benefits of flooding the body with oxygenated blood including increasing energy levels, relieving stress and reducing pain.