Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Compression
Imagine your body is a bustling city, and the lymphatic system is its sophisticated waste management facility, tirelessly working to keep things clean and orderly. Now, sometimes this system needs a bit of a helping hand, and that’s where Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) steps in, like a team of super-specialized sanitation engineers!
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
MLD is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique that guides the trapped lymph fluid to alternate routes and detours, ensuring a smooth flow. It’s like having a skilled traffic officer gently directing the “vehicles” (lymph fluids) with expert hand movements, encouraging them to move in the right direction, avoiding the “traffic jams” and promoting a free-flowing “highway.”
If the main pathway to the armpit (axilla) is obstructed (for eg. because of lymph node clearance during breast cancer removal), then the therapist can work the excess fluid towards alternative pathways like the Mascagni-Sappey pathway that drains into the neck region (red arrows). This effectively bypasses the blockage in the axilla (red X) and helps drain the limb.
Sometimes, specially designed machines can be used to administer MLD treatment. This is especially useful when the patient requires frequent sessions to decongest the limb quickly. However, a proper consult with the therapist and doctor should always precede the first session.
Compression
Compression therapy is a cornerstone in the management of lymphedema, offering a practical and effective way to control swelling and promote the healthy flow of lymph fluid. This therapy primarily utilizes two tools: garments and wrapping.
Compression garments are specially designed pieces of clothing such as sleeves, stockings, and gloves that apply consistent pressure to the affected limbs. These garments are crafted to exert a graduated pressure, which is tighter at the extremities and decreases gradually towards the body, facilitating the upward flow of lymph fluid back towards the heart. They may be bought off the shelf or custom-made
On the other hand, compression wrapping involves the use of bandages to create a supportive wrap around the affected area. This technique allows for a more customised approach to managing lymphedema, as the pressure and focus areas can be adjusted according to individual needs. It’s a method often used in the initial treatment phases, helping reduce swelling and maintain skin health.
Compression
Compression therapy is a cornerstone in the management of lymphedema, offering a practical and effective way to control swelling and promote the healthy flow of lymph fluid. This therapy primarily utilizes two tools: garments and wrapping.
Compression garments are specially designed pieces of clothing such as sleeves, stockings, and gloves that apply consistent pressure to the affected limbs. These garments are crafted to exert a graduated pressure, which is tighter at the extremities and decreases gradually towards the body, facilitating the upward flow of lymph fluid back towards the heart. They may be bought off the shelf or custom-made
On the other hand, compression wrapping involves the use of bandages to create a supportive wrap around the affected area. This technique allows for a more customised approach to managing lymphedema, as the pressure and focus areas can be adjusted according to individual needs. It’s a method often used in the initial treatment phases, helping reduce swelling and maintain skin health.
Synergy with Surgery
Enhanced Surgical Effect: The combination of MLD and compression therapy can enhance the effectiveness of lymphatic surgeries like lymphovenous bypass or lymph node transfer by creating a supportive environment that encourages the success of the surgical interventions.
Holistic Approach: This trio forms a holistic approach to lymphedema management, where surgery addresses structural issues, and MLD and compression therapy assist in functional recovery and long-term maintenance.