Is ‘ Manual Lymphatic Drainage’ (MLD)
Lymphatic drainage is sometimes termed ‘massage’ because it involves hand movements on the skin but it is very different from therapeutic or aromatherapy massage which can cause friction to the skin and increase the blood supply. This, in turn, causes more lymph to be produced.
There are two types of lymphatic drainage that may be used to treat lymphoedema – manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and simple lymphatic drainage (SLD).
Lymphatic drainage techniques provide regular stimulation of the lymph vessels under the skin. It encourages them to work harder and find new pathways to drain away the lymph using a milking or siphoning effect to move lymph away from the swollen area. Treatment with MLD or SLD may be particularly helpful if you have swelling of your face, neck, upper arm, thigh, breast, trunk, or far lower limbs.
Manual lymphatic drainage
Manual lymph drainage (MLD) is a very special type of skin massage designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. The hand movements and sequences are adapted for each person.
Simple lymphatic drainage
You may be taught a very simple form of skin massage which you can perform yourself each day. This is simple lymphatic drainage. The massage is based on the more complex technique of MLD and takes about 20 minutes. You should try to perform it at the same time each day so that your lymphatic system is stimulated regularly. You can carry out the massage with or without wearing any prescribed hosiery or bandages on your affected limb. The swollen area is never massaged when using this technique. Many people find it both convenient and relaxing to perform the massage at bedtime.
If you wish, your lymphoedema therapist can teach a relative or friend to do the massage for you. This can be particularly helpful if you need a massage to your back. If your partner is involved, a bonus may be that it increases your feeling of wellbeing.