Enhances the drainage of lymphatic fluid

Lymphatic drainage is a special type of massage that stimulates the transport of lymphatic fluid with the help of gentle grip techniques. It is used to treat lymphedema, i.e. when lymphatic drainage is disturbed and fluid builds up in the tissues. Such a disorder can be easily recognized by visible swelling. Lymphedema most often affects the limbs. However, they are also possible in the face.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), also called manual decongestive therapy, is an application that evolved from classical massage. In order to treat edema, manual lymphatic drainage is usually the method of choice. It is a light surface massage using circular, twisting, pumping and scooping grips with little pressure. The low pressure is important because the lymph vessels are quite close to the surface and therefore can be easily squeezed, which would impede lymphatic drainage. MLD does not push the lymph through the body, but stimulates the lymph vessels' own contractions. Since the lymph nodes are located deeper, more pressure is needed to stimulate them. In addition to the decongestive effect, MLD has a calming and pain-relieving effect and has a positive effect on the immune system.

Regardless of where the actual edema is located, MLD always begins at the neck and collarbone. This is where many lymph nodes are located and, most importantly, where the lymphatic vascular system joins the venous blood system. Starting from there, the treatment works through the trunk towards the edema to clear the way first. Most of the treatment is concentrated on the swollen extremity. At the end, it is worked back up to the neck. Following MLD, compression treatment is usually required to prevent the edema from flowing back. This compression is provided either by specially applied compression bandages, which are padded with a thin layer of absorbent cotton to prevent pressure points, or by individually made medical compression stockings. MLD and compression are parts of complex physical decongestive therapy (CPD).

Watch your skin: look for small injuries, such as cracks. Because of the prolonged healing process due to impaired lymphatic drainage, infection may occur. Protect yourself during all activities, such as wearing gloves when doing housework, gardening, and crafts. Avoid perfumed washing and care products, as these can irritate the skin. If possible, prefer pH-neutral products. You should take moisturizing the skin seriously, especially during compression therapy.

Exercise is important for lymphatic drainage. Compression treatment is only effective with adequate exercise, as the recurrent compression of the lymphatic vessels between the muscles and the bandage or stocking stimulates lymphatic drainage. In order to get new information and to exchange experiences, a self-help group is suitable. These exist in many cities.

Contrary to widespread belief, diuretics (drainage tablets) are counterproductive. They extract water from the edema, which leads to an increased protein concentration in the tissue, which on the one hand makes the removal much more difficult and on the other hand can lead to long-term damage to the lymph vessels.