Lymphedema: How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Makes a Difference

The human lymphatic system is critical to health, and yet, it isn’t talked about all that much. Besides producing and deploying the cells that initiate the immune response, it plays a major role in the circulatory system—when the heart sends blood to tissues and organs, the lymphatic system pumps the leftover fluid back to the heart, along with the veins. If the lymphatic system isn’t functioning optimally or is blocked, such as after a surgery, injury, or due to a health problem, this fluid can build up under the skin, causing swelling. This is known as lymphedema.

Lymphedema can be a challenging condition to live with, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. Manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD) is one incredibly helpful and minimally invasive therapy used to decrease the swelling associated with lymphedema. During a lymphatic massage session, a therapist will apply smooth, gentle strokes and light pressure to swollen areas. This stimulates the movement of fluid out of the tissue spaces and into the lymphatic ducts, which exist just below the surface of the skin. Besides decreasing swelling, MLD can reduce bruising, prevent scar tissue formation after an injury, speed up the healing process, regenerate damaged tissues, and even relieve headaches.

While chronic forms of lymphedema aren’t curable, therapies like manual lymphatic drainage can greatly decrease swelling and improve your quality of life. If you’re interested in working with an MLD practitioner, head over to Tribe’s practitioner directory.