Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and/or Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC)                                               

The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help the body get rid of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.

While the heart continuously pumps blood through the blood vessels, the lymphatic system relies on the movement of muscles to move fluid through the lymph vessels.

Health conditions and unhealthy lifestyles can interrupt the normal flow of lymph, causing lymph fluid to build up in a particular area of the body, often in the arms or legs, where it can cause swelling.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and/or Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

The main goal of manual lymphatic drainage and complete decongestive therapy is to improve or restore lymph drainage efficiency that has become impaired due to medical treatment, infections, coexisting medical conditions, or any other reason..

Manual Lymphatic drainage can benefit people who are experiencing the following:

• Lymphedema
• Post-surgical procedures (mastectomy, joint replacement, DVT)
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Arthritis
• Fluid retention syndrome (accumulation of water in body)
• Skin disorders
• Fibromyalgia
• Digestive problems
• Liposuction
• Migraine episodes
• Fatigue

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) includes:

• Manual lymphatic drainage (massage)
• Compression bandaging
• Exercises
• Skin care and garments                                            

Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC)

This therapeutic technique is based on a medical device that consists of an air pump and inflatable sleeves. The device is used to prevent formation of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and reduce swelling/edema by improving venous circulation in the limbs.

This technique is also highly recommended to speed up post-workout recovery, by decreasing the lactic acid which builds up in the muscles after intense exercises.

Intermittent Pneumatic Compression can be beneficial for conditions like:

• Feeling of heaviness in legs, especially after long run, walk or flight
• Intense workout including marathon, walkathon or prolonged standing
• Swelling or edema
• Fatigue