Electro-Lymphatic Therapy ELT
Inflammation is often presented on the exterior as red, hot, swollen and is sometimes painful upon contact. It is often a reaction to external trauma or infection. As the immune system is triggered to combat the pathogens or unwanted substances, we can sometimes see or palpate swollen lymph nodes to identify an area of inflammation.
Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) aids the body by assisting and maintaining lymphatic drainage across the body. When ELT moves lymph fluids along, it passes through an area of infection, bringing lymphocytes to clear away unwanted substances and reduce stagnation in the area. By improving lymphatic drainage, patients observe a reduction in swelling and heat of the affected area.
ELT combines the general technique of MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) with a handheld device designed to stimulate the lymph in a more efficient and effective manner. The system typically involves the application of various energy forms while imitating the MLD technique.
Over the last 30 years, various devices have been designed for ELT using mechanical/vibrational, thermal, light, and electrical energy to help encourage proper lymph drainage and flow. These devices typically use pulsating gas ionization systems also known as VLT (vibrational), ELT (electrical) or PLT (photonic). The XP2 is recognized as one of the most effective devices used in ELT combining multiple of such energy forms for maximum effect.
This work is facilitated by professionals including certified lymphedema specialists, chiropractors, nurses and massage therapists who are specially trained in assisted/ manual lymphatic drainage. The enhanced stimulation of ELT has benefited thousands of clients worldwide who had experienced limited response from MLD.
Disclaimer: Electro-Lymphatic Therapy using LymphDrainage XP-II, as well as any wellness devices mentioned, is intended for use only for general well-being purposes or to encourage or to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and is not intended to be used for any medical purposes (such as detection, diagnosis, monitoring, management or treatment of any medical condition or disease). Any health-related information provided by this device should not be treated as medical advice. Please consult a physician for any medical advice required.
Why is ELT superior to MLD
While MLD has its place, ELT can stimulate the lymph at a greater depth with less effort in far less time. In addition, ELT can sometimes accomplish what could never be done manually by stimulating beyond the manual superficial.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage MLD
Traditional Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a technique which uses 4 types of pressure and motion techniques applied with the hands to help stimulate proper lymphatic fluid flow and drainage. The primary purpose of MLD is to treat lymph-oedema patients. This technique was developed in the 1930’s by Dr Emil Vodder, which mainly addresses the superficial lymphatic system. The therapy is practised in clinics and hospitals all over the world by trained therapists.
Shortcomings
Manual lymphatic drainage technique is very time consuming (3-4 hours a day) and involves manual massage in conjunction with compression bandaging and compression garments. Clients must commit to daily sessions and a lifetime commitment of wearing compression garments in order for the therapy to be effective. If compression is not applied properly it can result in necrosis of the tissue and exacerbate the problem to a more serious level of lymphedema. With this technique, the client is responsible for re-wrapping and applying compression garments themselves which can result in the worsening of the condition or even permanent damage. Many lymphedema specialists have witnessed the frustration of many clients with this technique, to the point of abandonment of the therapy.1
1Jennifer Gramith, ND 2016
