manual lymphatic drainage


manual lymphatic drainage

A type of contemporary Western massage, developed in France in the 1930s by Danish physical therapist Dr E Vodder, consisting of various manipulations intended to stimulate the lymphatic drainage of various organs and tissues. Manual lymphatic drainage aims to eliminate bacteria, toxins, viruses, wastes and excess water, and addresses blocks in lymphatic circulation, which may cause congestion and peripheral oedema. Four basic techniques are employed: stationary circles, pumping, rotation and scooping, which are followed by stroking the tissues toward the sites of normal lymphatic drainage. Manual lymphatic drainage has been used for various conditions, including acne, arthritis, bums, oedema, inflammation and sinusitis.

manual lymphatic drainage

Abbreviation: MLD
Gentle massage techniques used to correct localized lymphedema, e.g., in patients who have swelling of an arm after mastectomy with lymph node dissection. The therapist assists lymphatic flow from the extremity toward the heart. Synonym: lymphatic drainageSee also: drainage