If you or someone you know is struggling with the lingering symptoms of Long Covid symptoms, you are not alone. After the initial acute phase of COVID-19, many people continue to experience debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and brain fog that can last for weeks or even months. These prolonged effects, commonly referred to as Long Covid, have created a pressing need for effective treatment strategies to manage and alleviate the symptoms. One promising approach gaining attention is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage, a gentle and non-invasive therapy that can support the recovery process for Long Covid patients. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Giovanni, a highly trained therapist from the Vodder Academy, is helping clients recover from the lingering effects of Covid-19 using this technique. But how exactly does MLD work, and can it help you overcome the frustrating symptoms of Long Covid?
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD)?
MLD is a specialized massage technique that uses gentle, rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymphatic system—the body’s waste removal and immune system. The lymphatic system is responsible for draining toxins, bacteria, and waste from the body’s tissues. It plays an essential role in inflammation control, immunity, and tissue recovery. MLD can help to enhance the flow of lymph, reduce chronic-inflammation, alleviate congestion, and promote overall healing.
Trained at the renowned Vodder Academy, Giovanni uses the Dr. Vodder method of MLD, a highly effective and evidence-based technique. This form of lymphatic drainage focuses on increasing lymph flow and addressing issues such as fluid retention, swelling, and inflammation, which are common in patients suffering from post-viral syndromes, including Long Covid.
Long Covid Symptoms: A Multifaceted Condition
Long Covid is a condition where individuals experience lingering symptoms after the acute infection phase has passed. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest
- Breathlessness: Difficulty breathing or catching your breath even after mild exertion
- Cognitive Dysfunction: Often referred to as “brain fog”, which includes issues with concentration, memory, and clarity of thought
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Persistent aches and pains that can make everyday tasks difficult
- Sleep Disturbances: Trouble falling or staying asleep due to physical discomfort or anxiety
While medical management of Long Covid usually focuses on symptom control, the current lack of effective pharmaceutical treatments leaves many patients seeking alternative therapies. That’s where Manual Lymphatic Drainage can make a significant difference.
How MLD Helps with Long Covid Symptoms
A recent study, Manual Lymph Drainage for Post-COVID-19 Related Cough, Breathlessness, and Fatigue, explored the use of MLD as a treatment for individuals suffering from persistent Long Covid symptoms. This study found that MLD helped reduce symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and chronic cough, with improvements starting as early as the third treatment. Patients reported increased energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced functional capacity after just a few sessions.
Giovanni’s expertise with MLD can be crucial in addressing the inflammation, poor lymphatic drainage, and respiratory issues often associated with Long Covid.
Key Benefits of MLD for Long Covid Symptoms Recovery:
- Reduces Inflammation
One of the key factors contributing to Long Covid symptoms is chronic inflammation. MLD helps to reduce systemic inflammation by promoting the drainage of inflammatory waste and toxins, which can alleviate discomfort and promote healing. - Improves Breathing Function
Many Long Covid sufferers experience breathlessness, a symptom that can greatly affect quality of life. MLD targets the lymphatic pathways in the chest and lungs, which can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, clear mucus, and improve lung function. The technique also includes special “bronchitis” maneuvers that help open up the lungs and reduce coughing. - Boosts Energy Levels
Fatigue is one of the most disabling Long Covid symptoms. By supporting lymphatic flow and reducing congestion, MLD can improve circulation and oxygen delivery to the body’s tissues, helping to restore energy levels and combat the persistent tiredness that plagues many Long Covid sufferers. - Supports Immune System Recovery
Long Covid symptoms often result from an immune response gone awry. MLD can help recalibrate immune function, promote lymphatic circulation, and enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself. - Enhances Mental Clarity
Brain fog and cognitive dysfunction are common complaints among people with Long Covid. By reducing inflammation and promoting better circulation, MLD may help improve mental clarity and cognitive function, allowing patients to regain focus and reduce feelings of confusion or mental fatigue. - Improves Sleep Quality
Many Long Covid sufferers report difficulties with sleep. By reducing pain and inflammation, MLD helps induce a relaxation response in the body, which can promote deeper, more restful sleep.
Giovanni’s Approach: Tailored MLD Treatment for Long Covid Symptoms
Giovanni, a skilled therapist with extensive training in the Vodder Academy’s MLD method, offers personalized treatments for those struggling with Long Covid. Each session is tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms, addressing areas such as:
- Chest and Lungs: To reduce inflammation and congestion
- Neck and Shoulders: To alleviate stiffness and promote relaxation
- Facial Area: For sinus congestion or post-viral inflammation
- Whole Body: To improve general circulation, reduce swelling, and stimulate the lymphatic system.
When working with this type of presentation, it is also valid to consider a shorter initial session to ensure that MLD would not spike up your symptoms. If you are not sure what works best for you, just ask to Giovanni.
Giovanni’s gentle, compassionate approach helps create a safe space for clients to heal. Many clients report feeling noticeably better after just a few sessions, with improvements in breathing, energy, and mental clarity. Read here about the Melbourne Massage and Treatment testimonials.
Real-World Results: Case Studies
In a study of two Long Covid patients undergoing MLD treatment, both reported substantial improvements in their symptoms. After just a few sessions, they experienced reductions in breathlessness, fatigue, and overall discomfort. By the time of their follow-up treatment, both patients reported feeling the best they had since before contracting COVID-19, with increased energy, improved sleep, and less reliance on medication.
Why Choose MLD for Long Covid Recovery?
- Non-invasive and Drug-free: MLD offers a natural, non-pharmaceutical approach to managing Long Covid symptoms.
- Scientifically Supported: Studies have shown that MLD can help reduce inflammation, improve lymphatic function, and support immune health.
- Customized Treatments: Giovanni’s expertise allows for treatment tailored to your specific Long Covid symptoms, ensuring you receive the most effective care.
Conclusion
Long Covid can be a daunting condition, but there is hope. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) offers a safe, non-invasive, and effective solution to help manage and reduce the symptoms of Long Covid. Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, breathlessness, or cognitive issues, Giovanni at Melbourne Massage and Treatment can help guide you on the road to recovery.
If you’re ready to take control of your recovery and experience the benefits of MLD for Long-Term COVID-19, book your next lymphatic drainage massage session now. A tailored approach to lymphatic drainage could be the key to regaining your vitality and moving beyond the long-term effects of COVID-19.
FAQ
Q: What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage?
A: MLD is a gentle, specialized massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to promote the removal of toxins and waste from the body. It uses rhythmic movements to enhance lymph flow, reduce inflammation, alleviate congestion, and support the body’s natural healing processes. It’s particularly effective for conditions like Long Covid, where inflammation and immune system imbalances are often present.
Q: How does MLD help with Long Covid symptoms?
A: MLD can help reduce the chronic inflammation, fatigue, breathlessness, and brain fog commonly associated with Long Covid. By improving lymphatic flow, MLD helps to reduce fluid retention, support immune function, and promote better circulation, which can lead to increased energy levels, improved breathing, and enhanced mental clarity.
Q: How many MLD sessions are needed to see results for Long Covid recovery?
A: The number of sessions varies depending on individual symptoms. However, many patients start to experience improvements in fatigue, breathlessness, and energy levels after just a few treatments. In general, it is recommended to plan for at least three treatments, with further sessions scheduled based on individual needs and progress.
Q: Is MLD a safe treatment for people with Long Covid?
A: Yes, MLD is a gentle and non-invasive treatment that is generally safe for most individuals, including those with Long Covid. The technique is customized to each person’s specific symptoms and condition. Giovanni, a highly trained therapist, uses a compassionate approach to ensure comfort and effectiveness. If you have concerns or specific health conditions, it’s always a good idea to discuss them with the therapist beforehand.
Q: Can MLD help with other Long Covid symptoms, such as sleep issues or brain fog?
A: Absolutely. Many people with Long Covid report difficulties with sleep disturbances and brain fog. MLD can improve sleep quality by reducing pain and inflammation in the body and promoting relaxation. It may also help with cognitive symptoms by enhancing blood and lymphatic flow, which can support mental clarity and reduce confusion or fatigue.
Q: What makes Giovanni’s MLD approach unique for Long Covid recovery?
A: Giovanni’s approach combines extensive training in the Vodder Academy’s MLD method with a personalized treatment plan for each patient. He adapts the treatment based on the individual’s symptoms and progress, addressing specific areas like the chest, lungs, neck, and shoulders to target inflammation and improve breathing function. Many clients report feeling significantly better after just a few sessions, with noticeable improvements in both physical and mental well-being.
Giovanni La Rocca
Giovanni moved to Melbourne, Australia, from Italy in 2008 and became a citizen in 2017. He started studying massage therapy in 2016, then completed a Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical Myotherapy in August 2024. During those years, he also specialised in Thai Massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage for presentations like Lipoedema and Lymphoedema. Nowadays, he runs his clinic in Fitzroy North, Melbourne, where he integrates movement therapy into his practice to enhance overall well-being. He also values meditation, having completed several Vipassana courses. Committed to continuous learning, he aims to share his expertise in integrated therapies to help others achieve balance and resilience.