Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a very gentile and precise skin treatment specifically impacting the lymphatic system. MLD also improves blood flow as well as offers a number of other benefits. Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) consists of MLD an addition to compression bandaging, therapeutic exercises, patient education, and proper compression garments for maintenance care as needed. Some or all of these components may be included in treatment for lymphedema, CVI or lipedema depending on the indication and stage of condition.

An intensive therapy phase involving multiple treatments per week of CDT may be recommended if necessary. The purpose of an intensive therapy phase is to significantly reduce edema, remove fibrosis if present, reduce discomfort or pain, improve skin health and range of motion, and gain tools to improve long-term management of lymphedema. Education on risk factors and preventative measures as well as building healthy routines in order to maintain quality results following an intensive therapy phase is also an important component of treatment.

Additional conditions which may benefit from MLD:

• Chronic venous insufficiency/ CVI
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Concussions, Stroke, TBI
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Lipedema
• Chronic inflammation and pain
• Post operative edema
• Symptoms associated with neurodegenerative diseases (AD, MS, PD)
• Post operative edema
• Intracranial swelling (TBI, Stroke or Concussion)
• Chronic sinusitis
• Frozen shoulder
• Fibromyalgia

* Click our Research on MLD page to view references and research articles on the efficacy of MLD in treating a variety of different conditions in addition to lymphedema.