A type of gentle massage which is intended to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. It is a combination of techniques used to correct localised lymphedema, like
- Swollen ankles and legs after air travel
- Tight sore breasts – PMT or fibrocystic disease
- Headache
- Medical conditions – after removal of lymph nodes e.g., in patients who have swelling of an armafter mastectomy with lymph node dissection.
- Following cosmetic surgery – liposuction, scar tissue
The therapist assists lymphatic flow from the extremity toward the heart. Although lymph also carries lymphocytes, and other immune system agents, manual lymphatic drainage claims to improve waste removal and immune function just when combined to other practises as specific diet and routine.