This is a very specialised type of massage and is
an important part of the treatment of lymphoedema. To be effective
in treating lymphoedema, it is important to use the correct technique.
The aim of the massage is to stimulate or move the excess fluid
away from the swollen area so that it can drain away normally.
Massage also encourages and improves drainage in the healthy lymphatics
(which helps keep fluid away from swollen areas).
MLD is particularly useful if there is swelling in the face,
breast, abdomen, genitals or elsewhere on the trunk.
The lymphatic system has no central pump and depends on muscle
contraction through deep breathing, exercise and manual manipulation
to move fluid. Therefore, MLD aims to stimulate the lymphatic
system to remove congestion and stagnation from within the body,
and so help it return to a healthy condition.
Lymphatic massage utilizes a very light pressure combined with
soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. The
Immune system function can be significantly increased, improving
metabolism and helping the body to eliminate waste and toxins.
Symptoms that are said to respond well to MLD are a weakened
immune system, chronic congestion (sinus etc), rheumatoid arthritis
and the healing of wounds, burns and scars. MLD is also often
incorporated into the treatment and control of Lymphoedema, and
works particularly well after breast cancer treatments.