Lymphatic drainage, also called manual lymphatic drainage or decongestive therapy, is a special form of medical massage used in physiotherapy to treat lymphoedema.
Lymphoedema develops when lymph drainage is impaired and fluid accumulates in the tissue, leading to visible swelling. Lymphoedema frequently occurs in the limbs but can also develop in the face. It can be congenital (primary lymphoedema) or caused by other diseases such as cancer (secondary lymphoedema).
In lymphatic drainage, the therapist uses various gentle, mostly circular techniques to stimulate the transport of lymph fluid in the lymph vessels and decongest the tissue. The basic techniques include the "stationary circle", the "rotary technique", the "pump technique" and the "scoop technique".
Lymphatic drainage decongests the tissue, accelerates lymph flow and is often perceived by patients as soothing and relaxing. It is part of "complex decongestive therapy", which also includes compression therapy, exercise and skin care.
Lymphatic drainage should only be performed by specially trained physiotherapists or medical masseurs. It is contraindicated in certain conditions such as tumours, inflammation or thrombosis.