MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage)
WHAT IS MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a treatment that helps stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid and relieve swelling that occurs when your lymphatic system gets blocked by surgery, illness, or an adverse event.
MLD involves gently and lightly manipulating specific areas of your body to help lymph move from a swollen area to a less swollen area. It is an integral part of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT).
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is performed by a qualified MLD practitioner using hand movements to help move lymph. Sometimes, the therapist might use a deep oscillation machine to help facilitate lymph movement and enhance healing. Some beauty or holistic therapy clinics offer lymphatic drainage massage for relaxation. They should not be confused with MLD treatments offered by MLD therapists trained to treat people with lymphoedema, lipoedema, and other health problems.
Taking your individual needs into account, MLD involves techniques specific to the physiology of the lymphatic system. Because the lymphatic system comprises lymph vessels that travel in one direction towards specific drainage ducts, MLD directs the fluid from swollen areas to lymph collectors that are open. The gentle, rhythmic motions on your skin also help to soften any hardened (fibrotic) tissue.
WHAT IS DECONGESTIVE LYMPHATIC THERAPY (DLT)?
The treatment I provide comprises MLD with Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT):
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MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) involves using my hands to manually unblock lymph and improve the flow of lymph. The video below helps to explain how this works.
This film has been developed by PocketMedic and Lymphoedema Network Wales.
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Compression garments minimise swelling and usually are provided by your surgeon, GP, or lymphoedema clinic. Should you need to be fitted for a compression garment, I can measure and provide you with a completed form. Some compression wear is available on the NHS. If you need additional compression, I can help you select appropriate compression from private companies that offer a wide selection of types and colours.
This film has been developed by PocketMedic and Lymphoedema Network Wales.
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Specific Exercises are important to stimulate your lymphatic system. They stimulate your lymph nodes and direct lymph fluid in a certain direction to help reduce swelling. The lymphatic system moves in one way only. For the lymph to move through the lymphatic system efficiently, it relies on muscle movement, deep breathing, and MLD. It does not move on its own. I will teach you these exercises. Deep abdominal breathing also helps open deep lymph collectors and enhances the positive effects of manual lymphatic drainage.
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Skin care is also important to help prevent injury and infections which can make the swelling worse.
It is essential that you try to maintain a healthy diet and keep hydrated. That might sound simple, but it is crucial. Your body's healing process depends on hydration and good nutrition.