Manual Lymphatic Drainage: who needs it and what can it do?
Please note that this is a special technique and you should always ask if a therapist has training. Pam Perron does, and she got her training from one of the “big four” providers of this certification.
If you’re curious about the lymphatic system, watch the quick video below.
To circulate our blood, we have the heart acting as a pump (though we tend to rely on that too much by not moving/exercising enough), but there’s no corresponding organ to help the lymph be circulated. Movement and exercise and drinking plenty of water are keys to the health of your lymphatic system.
Yet sometimes we still need more help and that is where manual drainage comes in.
When might you need manual drainage?
Chronic lymphedema (swelling in a limb - genetic or acquired)
Cancer survivors -- after-effects of both the cancer and the treatments For Example: Lymph node removal = lymphedema (such as swollen arm in breast cancer survivors)
After plastic surgery, especially liposuction (includes gender-affirming plastic surgeries)
Wellness and immune response: Lyme disease recovery, Toxic mold exposure, Long Covid, Allergies/sinuses, others as referred by physicians
Acute Injuries (such as Whiplash and Sprains) and Migraines
Inflammation - specific or systemic
What happens in a manual lymphatic drainage session?
Pam will employ gentle, rhythmic movements to stretch the skin and assist the lymphatic system. With the exception of some deep abdominal work, this is a superficial technique which targets the skin, working toward major lymph nodes, which surround major joints.
The goal, of course, is to reduce swelling by moving lymph fluid toward the heart and into circulation.
Who should avoid MLD?
People suffering from:
Cardiac edema
Untreated congestive heart failure
Acute infections
Depending on why you are getting MLD or what your goals are, there are different recommendations for frequency of appointments. You can discuss this with Pam before you start. But also remember to always default to your doctor’s recommendations.
