Tag Archives: Long-Covid

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, […]