Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Lymphoedema is caused by malfunctioning in the lymphatic system. It is irreversible and there is no cure for it. As the condition progresses, it may become more difficult to manage. It is crucial to treat and control this condition early. Lymphoedema should not be left untreated as it increases the risk of developing an infection that may require medical attention. The lymphatic system is made up of a complex network of lymph vessel interspersed by lymph nodes. The lymph vessel collects a clear coloured fluid (lymph) that is made up of water, protein and waste products from tissue and transports them into the blood stream; thereby maintain the fluid balance in the body
MLD 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 you may receive at a spa. MLD 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 as we say, “decongest.” 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.
- Primary or secondary lymphedema (swelling after removal of cancer cells)
- Lipedema
- Phlebo-lymphostatic edema
- Postoperative edema (swelling after surgery)
- Post-traumatic edema (swelling after trauma or injury)
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Non infected inflammatory conditions (eg: sprains and strains)
- CRPS (Complex regional pain syndrome or reflex sympathetic dsytrophy)
- Palliative care: Provision of comfort and pain relief when other physical therapies are no longer appropriate
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