Manual Lymphatic Drainage 101

Do you wake up in the mornings feeling puffy or notice your hands and feet seem swollen by the end of the day? Have you recently undergone surgery or suffer from autoimmune disease, inflammation, or chronic illness?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may be the ideal candidate to receive manual lymphatic drainage (MLD).

What is manual lymphatic drainage, you ask? MLD is a gentle and rhythmic bodywork technique that enhances functioning of our lymphatic system by removing tissue waste and boosting immune function.

Let’s explore!

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is a vital part of the human body. Several organs including bone marrow, thymus, lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and adenoids play an integral role in carrying out lymphatic system function. Lymphatic vessels (similar to veins or arteries in the circulatory system) carry lymph fluid to our lymph nodes. Here, this fluid containing proteins, water, cells, waste products, and fat are filtered and later returned into the cardiovascular system – to put it simply!

The lymphatic system is a deeply complex network of organs and vessels that provide immune system surveillance by recognizing and responding to foreign cells, microbes, viruses, and cancer cells. Lymph fluid is full of disease-fighting white blood cells. All our body's cells rely on lymph fluid to boost immunity and transport waste products. 

In addition to supporting the cardiovascular and immune systems, the lymphatic system helps our bodies absorb necessary proteins and fats through our intestinal system. 

There is no heart-like “pump” for the lymphatic system. Instead, as you breathe and move your body, the lymph fluid continuously gets pushed toward the heart. Our bodies naturally support this process. However, when congestion or blockages to the lymphatic system occurs, manual lymphatic drainage performed by a certified MLD therapist can help move lymph fluid through those disruptions. 

How Does Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Work?

Manual lymphatic drainage and massage therapy both involve manual manipulation of the body by a trained Licensed Massage Therapist or other certified healthcare professional to promote well-being and relaxation. However, they target different systems and utilize distinct techniques. MLD focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system to improve lymph fluid drainage, while massage therapy aims to relieve muscle tension.

Manual lymphatic drainage follows a specific protocol and sequence, starting with the main drains in the body where large clusters of lymph nodes are found, particularly in the neck, groin, and armpits. A certified MLD therapist will apply light pressure to these areas in a rhythmic and repetitive manner in order to mobilize the superficial lymphatic vessels which lie directly beneath the skin. Most sessions also include deep diaphragmatic breathing to support flow through the lymphatic system's largest vessel, the thoracic duct (running directly through the abdomen). 

Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Many clients describe their MLD session as soothing and deeply relaxing. Some may fall asleep on the massage table (which is perfectly acceptable) or find they get an incredible night’s sleep following their session. MLD provides a soothing effect on our parasympathetic nervous system which is more commonly described as our "rest and digest" state.

Some of MLD’s most notable benefits include:

• Reduces swelling (edema) and water retention.

• Supports healing after surgery or injury.

• Boosts immune function.

• Serves as a natural analgesic, meaning clients may experience pain relief as a positive side effect.

• Promotes relaxation, stress relief, and improved sleep patterns. 

Who Can Benefit from MLD?

Good news! Almost anyone can benefit from receiving manual lymphatic drainage, especially those seeking immune system support or relaxation.

The most common sign of a compromised lymphatic system is swelling. Like the blood

that is part of our circulatory system, lymph fluid is constantly moving. If it stops, it can build up and create swelling which may also cause feelings of pain, heaviness, numbness, or tingling. 

Many times, lymphatic vessels become congested because of surgery, infection, trauma, or diseases like cancer. MLD is clinically proven to help reduce swelling and highly effective for combatting inflammation. It may be especially helpful in relieving symptoms associated with:

• ​injuries such as sprains and whiplash

• fibromyalgia

• post-surgical swelling

• cancer

• lymphedema

• autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, etc.

• chronic venous insufficiency

• lipedema

• long Covid

• removal of lymph nodes

• migraines and other traumatic brain disorders

• diabetes

• Lyme disease

• pregnancy swelling

• tinnitus

• fibrocystic breast disease

• inflammation

• chronic fatigue syndrome

• complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

• hematoma

• palliative care / hospice

Who Should Avoid MLD?

If you are suffering from a diagnosed illness or experiencing severe symptoms, it is always recommended to talk to your doctor before beginning any lymphatic drainage or bodywork.  

Manual lymphatic drainage may not be appropriate for all clients. Below is a list of common conditions in which MLD should not be performed: 

• ​acute cellulitis

• untreated congestive heart failure

• acute untreated deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• fever

It is important to disclose your health history to your massage therapist in its entirety. This will help determine if MLD can be performed, if a certain body area should be avoided, or if MLD is not an approved method of bodywork for that condition. 

Most clients can expect a general sense of relaxation and relief after receiving MLD. However, it is important to note that this work is affecting many systems throughout the body, and the lymphatic system is responsible for transporting tissue waste. Though rare, it is possible that clients may experience some temporary negative side effects such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. Clients should always consult with their certified MLD therapist as well as a physician should negative symptoms persist longer than 24 hours. 

What to Expect in a Session

Like massage therapy, MLD is performed by a Licensed Massage Therapist while the client is laying reclined on their back, side, or stomach (on in some cases sitting). Clients are always encouraged to undress to their comfort level, but MLD is most effective when applied via skin-to-skin contact between the therapist's hands and the client’s body. The duration of a MLD session varies according to each client's goals. Some clients may require a full MLD session for as long as 60 or 90 minutes. Other clients may tolerate shorter MLD sessions lasting only 30 minutes. In some cases, MLD may be incorporated into an integrative massage. MLD sessions may be full body or focus specifically on an area of concern.

​Move Your Lymph Anywhere!

While receiving MLD is the most effective way to support your lymphatic system, there are still many things you can do at home. Gentle deep breathing exercises, staying well hydrated, and moving your body are incredible ways to get your lymphatic fluid flowing.

If you’re looking for additional lymphatic system support, searching for a new way to relax and unwind, or simply want to give MLD a try, call today or book an appointment online. Abundant Life Wellness, LLC offers 30, 45, 60, or 90-minute sessions, and we’d love to work with you!

Contact Us

(717) 321-6752

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