Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique offered by our skilled Registered Massage Therapist at MHP Therapy. Unlike deeper massage styles, MLD uses light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system — the network responsible for removing excess fluid, filtering waste, and supporting immune function.
WHAT IS IT
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance and immune health. When lymph flow slows or becomes congested, it can lead to swelling, discomfort, or a feeling of heaviness. Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps encourage lymphatic circulation by gently guiding lymph fluid toward functioning nodes, assisting your body’s natural lymphatic processes.
Who Can Benefit?
MLD may be beneficial for individuals who are:
- Recovering from cancer treatment.
- Experiencing swelling
- Recovering from injury or post-surgical inflammation
- Looking to support overall health through relaxation and stress reduction.
Whether you’re targeting specific therapeutic outcomes or simply want to support your overall wellness, MLD offers a gentle complement to our massage therapy services.
What to Expect in a Session
MLD is a specific, gentle, hands-on technique used to stimulate the lymphatic system:
Gentle Technique: MLD is a very light-pressure massage, primarily meant to be a skin-stretching approach. MLD should not be painful.
Purpose: The primary goal is to redirect excess lymph fluid from compromised lymphatic anatomy to functioning lymphatic pathways, so the fluid can drain properly.
Mechanism: The subtle, slow movements are designed to stretch the skin to stimulate the healthy lymphatic vessels, encouraging them to transport lymphatic fluid away from the affected area.
Session Focus: MLD sessions often begin with assessments and volumetric measurements. Treatment typically begins on the neck, as this is where your main lymphatic vessels are. From there, your CDT will create a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your treatment goals.
Many clients notice a sense of lightness and relaxation during and after treatment, and we often feel and/or see a reduction in the swelling.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive condition characterized by the accumulation of a protein-rich fluid, called lymph. This accumulation leads to swelling (edema), most commonly in the arms or legs, but it can occur anywhere, including the trunk, neck, or genitals.
Lymphedema occurs when the edema is present for greater than six months, or when there is a clinically significant difference in bilateral limbs. Lymphedema occurs as a result of a poorly functioning or damaged lymphatic system.
Types of Lymphedema:
- Primary Lymphedema: caused by a genetic or congenital abnormality in the development of the lymphatic system.
- Secondary Lymphedema: caused by damage or obstruction to a previously normal lymphatic system. Most often as a result of cancer treatment.
Why Choose MHP Therapy for MLD
Our therapists are trained in advanced techniques that ensure safe, effective, and personalized care. We integrate Manual Lymphatic Drainage into a broader wellness and rehabilitation plan when appropriate, tailoring each session to your health goals.