Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling of the body's tissues. It occurs when the lymphatic system doesn't function properly, leading to a buildup of lymph fluid. This condition can affect various parts of the body, but it is most commonly seen in a limb. Lymphoedema can have several causes; it can be developmental or genetic (known as 'primary lymphoedema') or result from damage to the lymph vessels and/or lymph nodes (referred to as 'secondary lymphoedema')—for example, due to cancer or cancer treatments like radiotherapy, or following injury or surgery.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can be used in different ways to assist individuals managing a lymphoedema diagnosis. The approach depends on whether the condition is stable, with swelling levels under good control, or if active treatment is needed to reduce swelling to a more manageable volume.
Lymphatic Drainage for Controlled Lymphoedema ("Maintenance MLD")
This treatment is suitable if your lymphoedema is already well-managed and stable, with swelling and fluid levels under control, and no significant reduction in limb volume is needed. MLD in these cases can be scheduled regularly (e.g., fortnightly or monthly) to boost overall lymphatic flow and actively clear lymphatic fluid from the affected areas.
As a new client for this type of treatment, you will probably need a (70 minute) first visit followed by regular sessions with timings as advised by the therapist. However, please get in touch to discuss your situation before booking to ensure clarity.
MLD to Reduce Lymphoedema Swelling ("Decongestive MLD")
For Cases of Mild Rebound-Swelling: If you experience a mild to moderate increase in lymphoedema swelling, possibly due to inconsistent use of prescribed compression garments, a semi-intensive MLD schedule combined with regular use of your garments may help bring the swelling back under control, followed by a maintenance schedule. This semi-intensive schedule may require 2-3 visits per week for a couple of weeks. Please contact us before booking your first appointment so the therapist can clarify necessary details.
In Tandem with NHS Bandaging: Many NHS lymphoedema services no longer fund MLD as part of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy, focusing instead on bandaging and lifestyle management advice. Some patients choose to source MLD therapy privately alongside their NHS bandaging treatment to achieve optimal results. Richmond Park Therapies can assist by scheduling MLD sessions strategically during your NHS treatment to maximise bandaging results.
If MLD for lymphoedema interests you, please use the contact form below (or WhatsApp or email) to arrange a phone call with our therapist, Nina. It is essential to discuss your requirements before booking, as appointment timing will vary depending on the extent of your lymphoedema and the areas affected. You will be asked a number of clarifying questions and in most cases be offered a first appointment to meet the therapist, discuss the practicalities of MLD for you, and receive your first MLD treatment. First visits for lymphoedema requiring volume reduction usually last 90 minutes. This will be confirmed when you call.
