Lymphedema occurs in the human body when the lymph drainage is disturbed. This causes fluid to build up in the tissue, resulting in visible swelling. Lymphedema can be congenital or caused by certain diseases, such as cancer or a venous disease, or by injury to the lymph vessels. Manual lymphatic drainage is an integral part of physiotherapy and is specifically designed to support the lymphatic system. It is used as a gentle massage technique to promote the transport of lymph and its waste products out of the body.
During manual lymphatic drainage, our therapists use gentle superficial circular movements on your body to stimulate your lymph vessels and promote the removal of lymph fluid. The four basic techniques of standing circle, pump grip, scoop grip and twist grip are typically used during a lymphatic drainage session to provide the best possible relief from your symptoms. There are various diseases and health conditions for which manual lymphatic drainage can be helpful. The following conditions are typical cases where lymphatic drainage can help:.
There are also some cases in which manual lymphatic drainage is objectively less helpful, but where our physiotherapists in Zurich can still offer the patient a feeling of improvement after your appointment through special massage techniques that stimulate the lymphatic system. This is the case, for example, with chronic polyarthritis and CRPS. However, lymphatic drainage should not be used , or only after consultation with the treating physician, for certain medical conditions.
These include:. Lymphatic drainage is particularly well tolerated by most patients and is perceived as helpful because it has a number of benefits. The main advantages are as follows:. Do you have any questions? Here are some of the most common ones:. No, lymphatic drainage should not be painful. It feels more like a gentle massage. During the treatment, your physiotherapist will use light, circular movements and special hand techniques to promote lymph flow without applying pressure.
This gentle approach makes the treatment well tolerated by most people, which is why it is often It is important that you provide feedback to your physiotherapist during the treatment to ensure your individual well-being. In the initial phase of lymphedema treatment, it is recommended that treatment be carried out two to three times a week.
