What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, effective, and evidence-based technique. Its main function is to manage swelling & pain following cancer treatment, injury, surgery, or other swelling conditions. An MLD session uses light, rhythmic pressure, and specific massage techniques. This, accompanied by guided breathing exercises, moves the lymph fluid through your body. The result is reduced swelling, reduced waste, and increased healing.
The process begins by gently “opening up” the main lymphatic pathways that are draining well. This helps prepare your body to drain fluid from the affected area more easily. Then, I use soft strokes on the areas of your body that need extra support, such as swollen limbs or areas affected by lymphedema, surgery, or injury.
The massage is very light—far lighter than a regular massage—because the lymphatic system is close to the skin surface, and gentle movements help encourage the flow without causing discomfort. The goal is to promote circulation, reduce swelling, and give your body a boost.
The Lymphatic System
Several liters of fluid leave our bloodstream and enter our tissues daily. This is how nutrients are delivered to our cells, and is a key component of our immune system. This fluid is then reabsorbed by our lymphatic system, cleaned, and recycled into the bloodstream. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are a part of our lymphatic system. Think of lymph nodes as tiny filters that help keep us healthy by trapping and filtering harmful substances, like bacteria, viruses, and waste.
We have lymph nodes throughout our bodies, but they are especially concentrated in areas like the neck, underarms, and groin. You have likely felt one when you are sick. They can become a bit swollen and painful when you fight an infection. By filtering lymph fluid in our bodies, we can better fight infections and keep our immune system strong. This video explains the lymphatic system in greater detail.
When the lymph nodes function properly, they help keep everything in balance. However, if something blocks or disrupts lymph flow it can cause swelling and discomfort in our tissues, especially our limbs. Blockages can occur as a result of post-surgical issues, cancer treatments, or injury. This is where Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can help by gently encouraging good lymph flow and reducing problematic swelling.
MLD for General Wellness
In recent years, the lymphatic drainage system has become a hot topic in the world of health and wellness. People are discovering the benefits of supporting lymphatic flow as a way to boost their immune system, reduce stress, and feel more energized. While MLD can indeed provide a gentle and supportive boost to the body’s natural detox process, it’s important to understand that healthy, uninjured individuals typically don’t need regular MLD treatments.
That said, for those looking to enhance their wellness routine, MLD can still offer some benefits. I offer a general wellness massage (book now) that incorporates MLD techniques, which can help promote lymph flow, reduce mild bloating, and help you feel rejuvenated.
However, it’s essential to remember that MLD is not a cure-all, and for most healthy individuals, maintaining a balanced lifestyle with proper hydration, exercise, and a healthy diet is the best way to support the lymphatic system naturally. A full MLD treatment is best reserved for those with specific needs, such as post-surgery recovery or managing conditions like lymphedema.
Safety Considerations for MLD
MLD is a very gentle and non-invasive technique that can be applied immediately after surgery or injury. However, there are some general precautions that we need to take. MLD is not appropriate if you are dealing with an active bacterial or viral infection, have a fever, have untreated cardiovascular or kidney disease, or have untreated cancer. If you have a heart or kidney disease that is managed by medication, MLD is still safe with careful monitoring. Your blood pressure is taken before and after treatment to ensure your safety.
MLD treatments are currently provided by Carly Smith. Carly is a Registered Massage Therapist with specialized Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) certification from the International Lymphedema and Wound Training Institute.