Originally Dr Vodder discovered Lymphatic Drainage Therapy while working in France with patients who suffered from congested lymph nodes. He noticed that when he applied light manual pressure to his patient’s lymph nodes, it helped push lymph fluid throughout the body, resulting in a reduction in swelling. Upon examining the lymph fluid, Dr Vodder and his wife, Dt Estrid Vodder, found that the lymphatic system played a crucial role in the body’s immune system.
This technique is also known as manual lymphatic drainage, a type of massage that encourages the lymph fluids to circulate through the body. This helps remove toxins, and improved circulation and can help with a number of conditions, including:
• Lymphedema
• Fibromyalgia
• Oedema
• Skin disorders
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Stress
• Digestive problems
• Arthritis
• Migraine
A 2021 review of 17 studies found some evidence that manual lymphatic drainage in early stages following breast cancer surgery may help prevent progression to clinical lymphoedema, though it may not provide any benefit for moderate to severe lymphoedema.
However, this type of massage is not suitable if a patient suffers the following conditions:
• Congestive heart failure
• History of blood clots or stroke
• Current infection
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems