April 29, 2023
Swelling, no matter the cause, can result in discomfort and pain if not addressed immediately. Aside from medication to help manage the swelling, there are various treatment methods, including manual therapy, designed to help patients who have lymphoedema.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. While it can affect any part of the body, it usually develops in the arms or legs.
Patients who suffer from lymphoedema may exhibit other symptoms including an aching or feeling heavy in affected body parts. Their range of motion may also be compromised. If you are experiencing such symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately to determine if you also need the help of a physical therapist. Keep in mind that lymphoedema can get worse if left untreated for a long time.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage? Can it help with lymphoedema?
Manual lymphatic drainage or MLD is a treatment method that aims to reduce swelling resulting from fluid build-up after undergoing cancer treatment or surgery. Like other treatment methods, there are different types of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) such as Casley-Smith, Földi, Vodder, and Fluoroscopy-guided manual lymphatic drainage.
The main purpose of MLD is to help move fluid from the swollen area of the body into a place where the lymphatic system is working normally.
To help the patient make the most out of lymphatic drainage massage benefits, the therapists use specialised skin movements to clear the area that they want the fluid to drain into. It may seem unusual and uncomfortable to see some movement on your skin, arms, or chest when they are cleared, but this is an indication that the fluid has somewhere to flow into.
If you are recovering from surgery due to an injury, some therapists or specialists might include MLD in your post surgery physiotherapy or treatment program to help you recover faster.
If you are experiencing unusual pain or discomfort after receiving cancer treatment or other procedures or you wish to consult with a specialist about unusual swelling in certain body parts, visit Scandinavian Physiotherapy Center DMCC.
We offer a range of treatment plans that are tailored to your needs. Feel free to visit one of our clinics for a consultation or book an appointment for therapy sessions or a sports massage.
