NUTRITION CONSULTANCY

MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE  (MLD) THERAPY                           

LYMPHOEDEMA & MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

Lymphoedema is a swelling that can affect any part of the body, although it is most commonly seen in an arm or leg. This condition develops when the lymph system, the delicate vessels of the draining nodes can no longer work effectively, because it has become damaged or its function is impaired. As a consequence, there is a build up of fluid, protein, and toxins in the tissues, causing changes in the skin and surrounding tissues. The skin becomes dry and thickened; the affected part feels tight and firm. The limb may feel heavy and can often ache.

Lymphoedema can be described as being Primary and Secondary.

Primary Lymphoedema is either congenital or spontaneous; it is result of an inherited abnormality of the lymphatic and venous system. Lymphoedema may be present from birth or can develop in young adulthood or even later in life.

Secondary Lymphoedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system. It can develop as a result of:

During mastectomy or hysterectomy the nearby cancerous lymph nodes can be removed surgically; sometime radiotherapy or chemotherapy is used to stop the spread of the disease. Any or all of these can damage the lymph nodes and pathways of lymphatic system, resulting in swollen, painful or misshapen arms and legs.

Lymphatic drainage helps the lymphatic system to start pumping effectively again and redirect the fluid to the functioning part of the system.

It is strongly recommended that patients have MLD immediately after surgery or radiotherapy to help prevent development of Lymphoedema.

The Treatment

During the initial consultation the medical history is taken. The swollen and the healthy limb are measured and the difference is recorded by percentage. Initially it is advisable to have treatments for 2-3 weeks on a daily basis (considering the severity of the swelling); thereafter the treatment interval varies according to the body’s response. Most sessions last either 30 or 45 minutes. After MLD the limb is gently bandaged with multi layer bandages or a simple compressive stocking or sleeve is worn.  

Kinesiotaping – Recommended to clients who refuse to wear multi layer bandages or compressive garments.  This is a special taping procedure that helps to direct the access fluid to the healthy lymph channels, thus reducing the fluid build up. This new technique originated in Japan in 1980's and apparently has quite amazing results in the treatment of muscle injuries and lymphoedema.  The tape is made of 100% cotton.  It is waterproof, allowing patients to bath or shower.  Does not contain latex, therefore reduces the risk of skin allergies.  When the tape is applied in a correct manner the underlying initial lymphatic vessels are stimulated, therefore the appropriate area is massaged all the time and the fluid (the Lymph) is directed to the correct channels.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a battery operated pulsed laser system; it is used for pain attenuation, wound healing and inflammatory conditions. Clinically it has been used for 20 years with no recorded side effects.

The following conditions can be successfully treated by LLLT.

Effects of LLLT on Lymphoedema

MLD & Good Health

With the background of nutrition and long experience in treating Lymphoedema I have achieved better and quicker results if the patient follows a specific diet programme, which will be discussed during the consultation. Special exercise and skin care programme is also prescribed to maximise the results of MLD and good health. A Lymphoedema recommendation guideline is given to every single patient.