Homepage - Wellbeing Techniques

What is Manual Lymph Drainage

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a specialised therapy aimed at improving the function of the lymph system. MLD, first developed in the 1930’s by Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife in Europe.
The lymph system is a vital component of the body’s immune system and transports vital nutrients and waste products around the body. MLD works on the lymph vessels by using a slow rhythmic, gentle skin techniques which allows for increase rate of the lymph system. It intensifies the removal of metabolic waste, excess fluid and substances from the tissues, which are then re-dispersed in the body or expelled. Due to the calm nature of the technique, MLD is well tolerated by all. Some healthcare plans cover the cost of MLD, check with your healthcare insurer. You can find out more about MLD by visiting MLD Ireland’s website at www.mldireland.com.

Lymphoedema & Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

Lymphoedema is a condition of the lymphatic system when it fails to drain excess fluid and substances from the interstitial spaces. Primary Lymphoedema is caused by genetically impaired component of the lymph system and Secondary Lymphoedema is impairment of the lymph system due to trauma or injury. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterised by swelling of one or more limbs and may involve head, trunk or genital area. It can affect all ages including infant and children. This swelling can lead to a decrease in the quality of life for individuals.
Secondary Lymphoedema can occur in the arm or chest area following breast surgery that includes lymph node clearance, in the leg/lower pelvis following removal of inguinal nodes for prostate, colon or gynaecological cancer or due to radiation in the area or in head and neck due to surgery or treatment in this area.

Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) or Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT) is a combination of MLD , skincare, exercises and layered compression bandaging and is the recommended treatment for both primary and secondary lymphoedema. This is an intensive treatment that is tailored for each individual client. Once CDT is completed, clients then enter in to the maintenance phase of treatment, this involves wearing compression garments, MLD, skin care and exercise.

A Little About me

After completing my nursing studies in Hertfordshire University in the UK, I worked as a staff nurse on an oncology ward in Mt. Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex for 3 years. Returned to Ireland in 2002 and worked as a staff nurse in Wexford General Hospital from 2003 to 2007. In 2007 I started nursing in the Oncology Day Unit of the hospital. Completed my Graduate Diploma in Oncology Nursing in May 2009, Masters in Clinical Practice August 2011 and Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice in May 2012 in UCD. In the course of my work in the oncology unit I have encountered patients who have lymphoedema post breast surgery and this sparked an interest in lymphoedema and its management. So in 2014, I trained as a Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist (Dr Vodder Method, Level III). I am also a member of MLD Ireland. I work full time on Wellbeing Techniques, having given up oncology nursing in Wexford General Hospital back in October 2017.