The Lymph Drainage technique is a light, skin-stretching massage that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. It should not be confused with a traditional massage.
Lymph Drainage is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. Therapy is applied to your unaffected areas first, making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region. MLD helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics.
Deep breathing techniques call diaphragmatic breathing are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase movement of fluid toward the heart.
Lymphatic Drainage is intended to stimulate lymph nodes and increase rhythmic contractions of the lymphatic vessels to enhance their activity so that stagnant lymphatic fluid can be rerouted.
MLD is composed of four main strokes: stationary circles, scoop technique, pump technique, and rotary technique.
Is effective both as a preventative treatment and as a postoperative rehabilitation treatment, and has optimal results when it is combined with the other elements of CDT (Complete Decongestive Therapy).[2]
MLD also increases blood flow in deep and superficial veins.[5]
Other than lymphedema, MLD may be useful in conditions such as post-traumatic and post-surgical edema, and palliative care.
Usually performed with the patient in the lying position
