Manual Lymph Info

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, assisting in the removal of metabolic waste and excess fluid. This FAQ page addresses common questions to help you prepare for and understand the benefits of this restorative therapy.

MLD & Lymphedema: In-Depth FAQ

Q: What is Lymphedema?
A: Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph fluid in the tissue. This can cause swelling in arm(s), leg(s), abdomen, breast or head and neck.

Q: What is the difference between Lymphedema I and II?
A: Lymphedema I, also called primary lymphedema is due to a congenital abnormality. It can appear immediately after birth, during puberty or during mid-adult years.
Lymphedema II, also called secondary lymphedema can develop when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes are removed, either due to surgery, radiation therapy, trauma, infection, venous/lymphatic insufficiency or parasitic disease.

Q: What is MLD?
A: The strokes applied in Manual Lymphatic Drainage are intended to stimulate the movement of the lymphatic fluids in order to assist the body in cleansing and decongestion. This is a gentle and rhythmical technique that cleanses the connective tissue of inflammatory materials and metabolic waste, enhances the activity of the immune system, reduces pain and lowers the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. The most widely taught and generally accepted form of this technique was created by Dr.Emil Vodder and requires advanced training and precise movements.

Q: What is CDT?
A: Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is used primarily in the treatment of lymphedema and venous insufficiency edema. It is a combination of MLD, bandaging, exercises and skin care. CDT may also involve breathing exercises and compression garments. A frequent indication for CDT is lymphedema caused by irradiation or surgery due to cancer or venous insufficiencies. It can relieve edema, fibrosis and the accompanying pain and discomfort.

Q: How do I find the right manual lymph drainage therapist for me?
A: Manual lymph drainage is a form of manual therapy. The strokes performed are very specific and have to follow the anatomy of the lymphatic system. Lymph drainage based on the teachings of Dr.Vodder have been proven the most effective and are recognized in the medical community all over the world. Your therapist should have attended a school who teaches this method and holds regularly review classes for their graduates for stroke reviews and sharing of the newest knowledge in the field of lymphatic studies.

Q: What is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT)?
A: It is a therapist certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).

Q: Why does a massage therapist need to be certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy to help lymphedema patients?
A: A massage therapist certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) has significantly advanced his or her training and is now uniquely qualified to work in challenging clinical settings centered around the field of lymphedema management.

Q: In which way do clients benefit from a therapist who has attended an advanced Spa-Body/Wellness course in manual lymph drainage?
A: The therapist focuses on the specific use of MLD in both, leisure and medical wellness settings to be able to perform treatment protocols for pre- and post cosmetic surgery, dermatological indications, cellulite, fluid retention, trauma, sport injuries and lifestyle disorders.

Q: How often do I need lymph drainage treatment?
A: It has been proven that MLD is most effective being applied several times. Please contact your certified therapist for a consultation.

Q: Which conditions can benefit from CDT?
A: Clients with a lymphedema diagnosis.

Q: I am planning to have plastic surgery soon - how many MLD sessions should I have and when?
A: Please consult your certified therapist - he/she can advise you.

Q: When can I receive MLD treatment after cancer surgery?
A: In case you develop swelling after surgery, please consult with your physician for a diagnosis. Once your malignancies are not active anymore, treatment can be started.

Q: When can MLD not be administered?
A: Please consult with your certified therapist since there are absolute and relative contraindications.

Q: In addition to therapy, should I wear compression garments to improve my condition?
A: Compression wear should be worn to support your lymph system during the day. At night, bandaging or specific compression wear is recommended. Plastic surgery patients usually wear their garments day and night, or as recommended by their surgeon.

Q: What type of compression garments should I wear?
A: There are different types and pressure gradients of compression wear. It depends on the condition of the client which one is the right one. Please consult with your certified therapist for measurement. Only a correctly fitted garment will support your lymph system.

Q: When do I need to wear compression garments?
A: A lymphedema client should wear the garment every day to prevent swelling to reoccur more than necessary. This is part of maintaining good health.

Q: Where do I buy compression garments to help treat my lymphedema or vascular condition?
A: It is vital to procure the appropriate compression garment for your condition. The correct sizing and gradient compression are the most important factors to consider. Most garments can be purchaased either at specialized local stores or online.

There are many other conditions, where the application of MLD is beneficial besides surgery and trauma.
Migraines, chronic headaches, sinus congestion, skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, acne, couperosis, rosacea, eczema, puffiness and fine lines and wrinkles, scars, as well as swollen, heavy and edematous feet and ankles esp. during pregnancy, lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and many more....

It is also used successfully in sports medicine and rehabilitation, like whiplash, repetitive strain injury, tendonitis and arthritis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24704645
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24567691/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24251034/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19243724/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18062616/

Manual Lymph Drainage FAQs

What exactly is MLD?

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) uses gentle, rhythmic techniques to support lymphatic flow, fluid movement, and the body's natural processes for transporting metabolic waste.

How does MLD feel?

Unlike traditional massage, MLD involves very light skin stretching. It is extremely soothing and relaxing, often causing clients to feel deeply restful during the session.

Who can benefit from it?

MLD is highly beneficial for post-surgical recovery, managing lymphedema, reducing inflammation, and boosting immune system function.

Is MLD safe for everyone?

While generally safe, it is contraindicated for acute infections, heart failure, or active blood clots. We always review your history to ensure safety first.

How many sessions do I need?

Frequency depends on your specific condition. Post-surgical clients often benefit from several sessions close together, while maintenance might be monthly.

What should I do after?

Hydration is key. Drinking water helps flush the metabolic waste stimulated by the treatment. Light movement and avoiding salt also support results.

Preparation & Recovery

Maximizing the benefits of your therapy starts before you arrive and continues long after you leave the table. Following these simple guidelines ensures your lymphatic system is optimally supported throughout the entire process.

How to Prepare

Hydrate well before your session and wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Arrive a few minutes early to relax and discuss any specific concerns or medical updates with your therapist.

What to Expect After

You may feel light and deeply relaxed. Increase your water intake to support the lymphatic system. While most feel rejuvenated, some experience temporary mild fatigue as the body clears fluids.

Ready to begin your healing journey?

Schedule your initial MLD consultation with our experienced therapists today.