Manual Lymphatic Drainage, commonly known as MLD, is a specialised and gentle form of massage designed to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid through the lymphatic system. It is one of the key components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which is the gold standard treatment for lymphoedema.
How is MLD Different from Regular Massage?
Unlike traditional massage, which targets muscles and uses firm pressure, MLD uses very light, rhythmic, repetitive strokes on the skin. The pressure used is gentle — roughly the weight of a 10p coin. This is because the lymphatic vessels sit just beneath the skin surface and respond to light stretch rather than deep pressure.
What Happens During a Session?
A typical MLD session lasts 45–60 minutes. Your therapist will:
- Begin by clearing the lymph nodes closest to the core of your body (usually the neck and trunk)
- Gradually work outwards towards the affected area
- Use slow, rhythmic movements to redirect fluid towards functioning lymphatic pathways
- The treatment should feel deeply relaxing — many patients find it quite soothing
What Can MLD Help With?
- Reducing lymphoedema swelling
- Softening fibrotic (hardened) tissue
- Improving skin condition
- Relieving pain and heaviness
- Promoting relaxation and reducing stress
- Supporting healing after surgery or injury
How Often Will I Need MLD?
During the intensive phase of treatment, MLD may be recommended daily for 2–4 weeks, often combined with bandaging. Once the swelling is reduced, sessions may be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly depending on your individual needs. Many patients also learn Simple Lymphatic Drainage (SLD) to perform at home between sessions.
Choosing an MLD Therapist
Always ensure your therapist is specifically trained in MLD and experienced in treating lymphoedema. At NLLP, Sue Levine is trained in the Vodder method (Leduc & Foldi) and has over 20 years' experience in lymphoedema treatment.