Lymphoedema
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a therapy which is designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. This is primarily achieved through gentle, rhythmical movements of the skin which stimulate the contraction of the lymphatic vessels. As a result a greater amount of the metabolic waste products and excess fluid are removed from the body’s tissues and enter the lymphatic system. The fluid is now known as lymph and passes through a series of lymph nodes where it is cleansed of dead cells, bacteria and other waste products. The clean lymph is then returned to the blood stream.
A well functioning lymphatic system contributes to healthy body tissue and plays an important part in the body’s immune responses. Sometimes the lymphatic system is impaired by removal of lymph nodes, radiotherapy (which often happens after treatment for cancer), surgery or injury due to an accident. The affected part of the body becomes swollen, uncomfortable and sometimes hard causing a lot of discomfort. This is called secondary lymphoedema. Sometimes the lymphatic system was obstructed or faulty from birth which may present itself at a later stage when the body becomes under stress. This is called primary lymphoedema.
TREATMENT FOR LYMPHOEDEMA
The patient is first measured where the problem has occurred. This gives a base measurement to work from and measurements will be taken regularly to monitor the progress. Normally this is followed by a manual lymphatic drainage massage which is very light, directing the flow of lymph in the correct direction away from the obstruction. Hivamat 200® deep oscillation therapy may be used if seemed appropriate. After the massage, bandaging may be recommended and given. Support compression garments will be prescribed if not already given. Skin care advice and exercises will be recommended. Kinesio taping may also be applied.
Manual lymphatic drainage is also used for the treatment of venous insufficiency, for pre- and post-surgery to aid healing, fluid retention due to pre-menstrual syndrome, puffy eyes, healing of wounds and burns, It can also improve the appearance and texture of old scars.
THERAPEUTIC LYMPHOEDEMA TREATMENTS
Denise can offer a full supportive treatment for lymphoedema which includes manual lymphatic drainage massage – which is extremely light and gentle – skin care advice, bandaging and advice or prescription of compression hosiery. The Hivamat 200® for deep oscillation therapy may be used. This has found to be extremely successful in the reduction of volume and is recommended by may therapists and professionals.
For further advice please telephone or email for a consultation.
