MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Complete Decongestive Therapy are two forms of treatment that aim at reducing lymphedema, dynamic edema or a combination of both.  MLD is a very specific type of massage that primarily addresses the lymphatic system; CDT is the follow up treatment and is comprised of bandaging with specific foam and short stretch bandages that are to be worn during exercise and daytime movement.  This treatment can be provided by certified lymphatic therapists.  The certification is an intense class which is typically 160 hours of hands on training.  The types of patients who may benefit from MLD/CDT are:

•  post operative swelling from an orthopedic procedure
•  post operative swelling caused by radiation or lymph node removal
•  post operative gynecological procedures
•  Swelling from trauma of any kind
•  venous insufficiency
•  sinus or congestion disorders
•  migraines
•  chronic constipation
•  neurological disorders such as MS
•  pain