Role of Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Lymphoedema Treatment: Is it right for you?
Recently diagnosed with lymphoedema and prescribed with MLD as part of your treatment? If you are not sure about what the role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage is, this blog is for you. Here, you´ll find its benefits and how it works. Why don’t we have a look…
Lymphatic drainage in lymphoedema :What is the role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Lymphatic drainage plays a crucial role in the management and treatment of lymphoedema, a condition characterised by the abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid. This condition, most of the time, is caused by damage to the lymphatic system due to surgery, cancer treatment, or other medical conditions. The role of Manual lymphatic drainage is to find new paths where that stock fluid can be drained in order to be eliminated from your body through urine. As a result, inflammation and order symptoms will be reduced, improving your quality of life.
Mechanism of Manual Lymphatic Drainage: how is it performed?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) uses gentle, rhythmic and pumping movements to stimulate your lymphatic system. Its purposes are to find new paths and move excess lymph fluid from swollen areas. In other words, MLD moves fluid from swollen areas into regions where the lymphatic system is functioning normally, so it can be collected by the circulatory system and expelled through urine. This process helps to alleviate swelling and symptoms, in addition to improving your general wellbeing.
The technique must be performed by a specialised therapist, trained in lymphoedema managements and able to tailor the treatment according to your needs.
What techniques are used in Manual Lymphatic Drainage for lymphoedema ?
Common techniques include:
- Light pressure and rhythmic strokes, such as: Fill & flush or Vodder techniques.
- Long, soft and systematic movements to improve lymphatic flow.
- When performing Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) using the Vodder or fill and flush Technique, it is important to avoid oils or creams on the skin in order to facilitate proper lymph flow.
- Combination of manual techniques and patient education (self massage, skin care, compression and exercises).
Lymphatic drainage in Lymphoedema: Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage
Research supports the effectiveness of MLD in treating lymphoedema, particularly in patients recovering from breast or related pelvic cancer surgery or radiation. MLD can lead to significant reductions in limb volume and improvements in quality of life.
Most common benefits are:
- Improve Lymph Flow
- Facilitate the movement of lymph fluid away from the affected area.
- Reduce swelling.
- Improve circulation.
- Symptoms relief
- Reduce pain and discomfort.
- Enhancing Skin Care
- Improve skin health
- Reduce the risk of infection.
- MLD is often used as a preparatory step before applying compression bandages.
- MLD is often part of an holistic lymphoedema management treatment that may include CDT (complete decongestive therapy) compression garments, exercise, diet, hydration and skin care.
What is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)?
MLD is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan, its name is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which includes:
- Compression Bandaging: Applying compression garments or bandages to prevent fluid accumulation.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage: uses specific movement to improve lymph flow and drain swollen areas.
- Exercise: your therapist will teach you exercises to promote lymph flow.
- Skin Care: Maintaining skin cleansing and integrity to prevent infections and complications.
Together, these components work synergistically to manage lymphedema effectively.
In short…
In conclusion, lymphatic drainage, particularly through manual techniques, is an integral aspect of lymphoedema management. It not only aids in reducing swelling but also enhances overall patient well-being when combined with other therapeutic modalities.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7717855/