MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY

MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, hands‑on therapy designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and improve the drainage of lymph fluid from swollen or congested areas of the body. A specialized massage technique using slow, rhythmic, light-pressure movements and aims to encourage lymph flow toward functioning lymph nodes.

What it’s used for

MLD is commonly indicated for:

• Lymphedema (primary or secondary, e.g. after cancer surgery)
• Post‑surgical swelling
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Trauma‑related edema
• Lipedema (as part of combined therapy)
• Certain inflammatory or fibrotic conditions

What a session involves

• Treatment usually starts at central lymph nodes (neck, abdomen)
• Progresses toward affected limbs or areas
• Movements are light, slow, and repetitive — not deep massage
• Often combined with:
  • Compression therapy
  • Exercise therapy
  • Skin care
    (together called Complete Decongestive Therapy – CDT)

Session length & frequency

Session lenght and frequency may vary from Acute phase, multiple sessions per week to Maintenance phase, weekly or less, depending on condition.

Important to know

• Must be performed by a specially trained skin/oedema therapist
• Not suitable in cases of:
  • Acute infection
  • Untreated heart failure
  • Active malignancy (unless medically approved)