What is
Lymphatic Massage?
Video of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Ever wondered what Lymphatic Massage looks like? Watch the video below for a demonstration.
The video above gives a brief demonstration of
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for the upper body.
Is MLD the Same as “Lymphatic Massage”?
So How Do You Know
If You are Getting
Real Lymphatic Drainage?
Most Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLT’s) are Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, or physicians. There are only a handful of massage therapists who hold this credential, but they have had the same training and have passed the same rigorous exam.
So, as you are looking around to see where you can get a “lymphatic massage”/Manual Lymphatic Drainage, don’t just look at the advertising. Look at the person’s credentials. You may view my credentials here.
This is especially important for people who are getting therapy for post-surgical swelling, Lymphedema (chronic, unresolving swelling), Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), Lipedema (a genetic disorder of the fat cells), are recovering from breast cancer surgery, or other medical condition.
What Technically is the Difference Between Manual Lymph Drainage and
Lymphatic Massage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a technique that is very specific in direction, stroke, and pressure in order to effectively move fluid out of a swollen area.
Lymphatic Massage implies that the therapist glides over the skin with oil. True Manual Lymphatic Drainage actually stretches skin gently and does not use any type of lubricant.
A “light massage” is NOT the same as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).
How Does MLD Work?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a very specific manual technique that is used to open lymphatic vessels in swollen tissues. Fluid then flows into the vessels and is routed along very specific pathways to return lymph to the circulatory system.
The process works by first opening the ducts where lymph empties into the circulatory system at the superior vena cava (a big vein) next to the heart. This is the equivalent of unclogging a pipe where the water backed up in the sink is then sucked down the drain.
For more information on How the Lymphatic System Works, check out this animated video I made to explain it.
