
Definition of Lymphatic Drainage on the Web:
The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to
our body's ability to operate at peak performance. This system
drains fluids, detoxifies and regenerates tissues, filters out
toxins and foreign substances and helps us maintain a healthy
immune system. If lymph circulation stagnates however, toxins
accumulate and compromise cellular functioning, which opens the
way to physical ailments.

Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT) is an original hands-on method of
lymph drainage developed by French physician Bruno Chikly. It
offers a highly efficient approach to working with the lymphatic
and other fluid systems. While its concepts are based on
traditional procedures, LDT is the first modality to teach
practitioners how to manually attune the specific rhythm,
pressure, quality and direction of the lymph flow by using a
combination of precise anatomical science and distinct manual
techniques.
With training, practitioners can learn to perform a lymphatic
"mapping" of the superficial and deep lymphatic pathways. Using
their hands, they can to assess the specific directions of lymph
flow and areas of congestion and fibrosis-before, during and
after treatment-by using a procedure called Manual Lymphatic
Mapping (MLM). MLM allows the practitioner to manually determine
the most efficient alternative pathways in the presence of fluid
stagnation. As an advanced practitioner, training is given to
interact with the fluids at different levels, from the most
superficial cutaneous circulation to that of the mucosa,
muscles, tendons, periosteum and viscera.

Techniques are performed with hands and fingers simulating
gentle, wave-like movements. They are neither tiring nor
straining but light-touch and easy to use. These subtle manual
maneuvers activate lymph and interstitial fluid circulation as
well as stimulate the functioning of the immune and
parasympathetic nervous systems.
Reduction in edemas (swelling) and lymphedema of various
origins.
Detoxification of the body.
Relief of numerous chronic and subacute inflammations,
including sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis.
Relief of chronic pain.
Regeneration of tissue, including burns, wounds, stretch
marks and wrinkles.
Stimulation of the immune system.
Reduction in the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and
fibromyalgia.
Antispastic actions to relieve conditions such as muscle
hypertonus and some forms of constipation.
Deep relaxation to aid insomnia, stress, loss of vitality
and loss of memory.
Anti-aging effects.
Alleviation of adiposis and cellulite tissue.