Frequently Asked Questions

Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), is the most complete method of moving lymphatic fluid. Although the majority of massage techniques are known to stimulate lymph movement, the direct and precise movements of MLD (stationary circle, rotational technique, pump technique, and scoop technique) have been created to promote the elimination of interstitial fluid from body tissues and speed up the circulation of lymph within the lymph vascular system.

MLD can assist with post-surgical recovery, edema (swelling) reduction, local infection prevention, hematoma management, anxiety and possibly even neuropathy.  Additionally, MLD can be of great benefit to issues cancer patients experience after completing treatment, including pain, fatigue, digestive issues, difficulty sleeping, increased stress and poor cognitive function.

MLD is helpful with conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and brain injuries where a compromised nervous system is present.  It is suggested that it is effective in reducing the activity of the Sympathetic Nervous System, resulting in less anxiety, pain and the increasing Pressure Pain Threshold.

MLD is recognized as the number one therapy for treating and maintaining primary and secondary lymphedema. Lymphedema is common in patients following post surgeries such as breast cancer surgery and is highly recommended after any cosmetic procedure such as liposuction or tummy tuck treatments as it will expedite recovery.  

Lymphedema happens when your tissues retain fluid left behind after your cardiovascular system sends blood to your tissues and organs.  When something disrupts your lymphatic system’s process, lymph collects in your arms and legs, making them swell.

MLD is used to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling in your tissues.

MLD Benefits:

• Reduction in edemas and lymphedemas of various origins
• Detoxification of the body
• Regeneration of tissue, including burns, wounds and wrinkles
• Anti-aging effects
• Relief of numerous chronic and subacute inflammations, including sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis
• Relief of chronic pain
• Reduction in the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
• Antispastic actions to relieve conditions such as muscle hypertonus and some forms of constipation
• Deep relaxation to aid insomnia, stress, loss of vitality and loss of memory
• Alleviation of adiposis and cellulite tissue

Contraindications:

• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): Symptoms of CHF are dyspnea, (shortness of breath), fatigue, bi-lateral lower extremity edema (swelling) and an irregular or rapid heartbeat. *If you are experiencing any of these symptoms in conjunction with CHF, please seek immediate medical attention.
• Acute Infections & Fever – Signs of infection are redness, edema, heat and often soreness.
• Cellulitis
• Acute Untreated Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Renal Dysfunction
• Contraindications of the Neck Area: Cardiac Arrhythmia, Arteriosclerosis/Atherosclerosis, Hypersensitivity of the Carotid Sinus, Hyperthyroidism
• Contraindications of the Abdominal Area: Due to the deep pressure applied to the abdomen when performing MLD in order to access the deeper lymphatic structures, the following conditions are contraindicated:  Pregnancy, menstruation, diverticulosis, diverticulitis, abdominal aortic aneurysm (even following surgical repair), recent abdominal surgery (within 6 months), radiation fibrosis, radiation cystitis, radiation colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, intra-abdominal scar formation, pelvic DVT, implanted devices such as drains, feeding tubes, colostomy bags, morphine or insulin pumps, fibroids, hernias, liver cirrhosis and any unexplained pain.