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Barbara McCaffrey
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphoedema Treatments
Manual lymphatic drainage is suitable for people who experience Lymphoedema. whether that be primary lymphoedema - congenital, or secondary lymphoedema; after cancer treatments, vascular insufficiency, injury etc.
MANAGING LYMPHOEDEMA
Lymphoedema - Chronic swelling of one or more parts of the body due to the collection of
lymphatic fluid accumulating in tissue, hands and feet may be affected.
Primary lymphoedema - Congenital, manifesting in adolescence (praecox=very early), or 35+
years (tardis).
Secondary lymphoedema - Damage to the lymphatic system. Usual cause, removal of lymph
nodes, radio therapy or injury resulting in impairment of lymphatic vessels.
Symptoms - Excess swelling, sometimes tender to touch, fibrotic tissue (hard/lumpy).
Treatment - Combined Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (CLDT) = Manual lymphatic drainage
(MLD), deep oscillation, compression garment.
Result - Lymphoedema whether primary or second can be managed successfully reducing the
risk of cellulitis and ulcers.
LYMPHOEDEMA MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE
Reduces swelling and helps prevent fluid collection.
Promotes the flushing of toxins.
Prevents the formation of scar tissue and fibrosis.
Improves circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid
Stimulates wound healing
Will reduce discomfort
After a surgical procedure, tissue can hold onto excess lymphatic fluid as the body reacts to the traumatic action of the insertion of cannulas, and removal of fat.
This is why Manual Lymphatic Drainage is so important when managing Lymphoedema.
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