LYMPHATIC THERAPY (MLD) - HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM MASSAGE?

Here at Lymphatic Therapy of Boulder County, we ensure our clients understand exactly what we offer, and why.

So let's talk frankly.

Lymphatic Therapy is NOT massage, and massage is not lymphatic therapy.

What are the differences?

Massage is a form of body therapy which primarily targets the muscular system.

It uses, for the majority of the time, moderate to deep pressure.

It is primarily intended for muscle relaxation and to alleviate muscular tension.

It is appropriate to use on healthy, non-compromised tissues.

Lymphatic Therapy (MLD) is a specialized body therapy which specifically targets the lymphatic system.

It uses, for the vast majority of the time, gentle and rhythmical pressure.

It is primarily intended for reducing inflammation and toxins.

It is helpful to use on tissues healing from surgery or injury, as well as healthy tissues.

Because approximately 70% of our lymphatic vessels are just underneath the surface of the skin -

MLD is a superficial, skin-stretching therapy treatment.

MLD stimulates and guides our lymphatic system to uptake the inflammation and toxins in our tissues.

MLD actually increases the rate of flow in the lymphatic system!

Next, the lymph nodes (located along the lymphatic pathways) will break down those toxins and inflammatory cells.

Once this happens, the broken-down cells will exit the body, primarily via urine.

And, because approximately 70% of our lymphatic vessels are just underneath the surface of the skin -

Massage bypasses the superficial lymphatic system. This means massage is not designed to reduce inflammation. In fact, massage can increase inflammation during the weeks and months post-surgery, due to overpressure on healing tissues.

Making educated decisions regarding your therapy choices is very important.

We welcome you to reach out to us at Lymphatic Therapy of Boulder County with any further questions.