Manual Lymphatic Drainage

MLD is a specialised massage technique used to support lymphatic flow and manage swelling.

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MLD is commonly used for lymphoedema and post-surgical swelling as part of a wider care plan.

MLD techniques were refined during the 20th century and integrated into lymphoedema care.

Condition	Evidence	Notes
Lymphoedema (lymphedema)	moderate	Core lymphoedema management
Swelling (oedema)	moderate	Clinically appropriate swelling
Post-surgery swelling support	moderate	Medical clearance required
Cancer emotional support (men)	moderate	MLD used in cancer post-surgical care.
Endometriosis support (adjunct)	moderate	MLD for endometriosis pelvic congestion.
Fibromyalgia support	moderate	MLD used for fibromyalgia symptom support.
Limited mobility support	moderate	MLD for limited mobility and tissue health.
Lipolymphoedema support	limited	Specialist input advised
Pelvic pain	moderate	MLD for pelvic congestion and pain.
Sports injury recovery support	moderate	MLD for sports injury swelling management.
Stroke recovery support (adjunct)	moderate	MLD used in post-stroke rehabilitation.
Trauma after accident or assault	moderate	MLD for post-accident swelling and recovery.
Long-term condition coping	limited	MLD supportive in chronic illness.
Muscle cramps	limited	MLD for muscle cramp support.
Painful sex (dyspareunia)	limited	MLD for pelvic congestion in dyspareunia.
Post-viral fatigue support	limited	Very gentle MLD for post-viral fatigue with extreme care.
Vaginismus	limited	MLD supportive for vaginismus pelvic floor.

Is MLD painful?

No. It uses very light, rhythmic strokes and should be comfortable.

What conditions require caution?

Acute infection, unmanaged heart failure and some vascular issues—seek medical advice.

Do I need to drink more water after?

Gentle hydration is recommended unless otherwise advised by your clinician.