top of page

The Science behind Manual Lymph Drainage in the Treatment of Lymphedema

  • Writer: Nina Dmitreff
    Nina Dmitreff
  • Feb 15, 2023
  • 1 min read

"Compared to traditional massage, the pressure applied with manual lymph drainage is much lower in intensity. The goal of these techniques is to manipulate the lymphatic structures located in the subcutaneous tissues. In order to achieve the desired effect, the pressure in the working phase should be sufficient enough to stretch the subcutaneous tissues against the fascia (a structure separating the skin from the muscle layer) located underneath, but not to manipulate the underlying muscle tissue.


The amount of pressure needed in MLD is sometimes described as the pressure applied stroking a newborn’s head.

In the resting phase of the stroke the pressure is released, which supports the absorption of lymph fluid into lymph vessels. To achieve the maximum effect with each technique, the working phase with every stroke should last about one second and should be repeated five to seven times.


The overall goal of MLD in the treatment of lymphedema is to re-route the flow of stagnated lymphatic fluid around blocked areas into more centrally located healthy lymphatic vessels, which eventually drain into the venous system."


Source: Joachim Zuther's Lymphedema Blog

Comments


  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter

State of Florida License No: MA96544-State of Georgia License No: MT013198

NPI No.: 1124777198

Certified Member Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP)

Member American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)

Member Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA)

Member International Cupping Therapy Association (ICTA)

 

©Copyright All Rights Reserved By The Grove Studio for Natural Healing LLC and Grove Massage Therapy PLLC Seo By AWDWIX

LEGAL and DISCLAIMERS

bottom of page