A light touch may have some rich body benefits.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is becoming a desirable addition to a self-care routine for many looking for a more holistic approach to well-being and healing. MLD is a particular type of massage that stands out for several important reasons. Unlike traditional massages that primarily target muscles, MLD stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation and supporting your immune system—a boon for those living with chronic conditions or recovering from surgery or injuries. This unique massage technique has many benefits and can make you feel better.

Here’s everything you should know about manual lymphatic drainage, including what it is, its potential benefits, and what to expect during your first session.

What is manual lymphatic drainage, really?

MLD focuses on the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. The lymphatic system maintains health by removing waste and excess bodily fluids. “The lymphatic system gets activated by moving. We walk, we stretch, we swim, we run. When we move, we help it move. If you’re not moving, neither is your lymphatic system,” says Rose Cobo, New York State Licensed massage therapist and a certified lymphedema therapist. By manually improving lymph flow, MLD helps enhance the lymphatic system’s efficiency.

During an MLD session, a trained therapist, like Cobo, uses gentle, rhythmic strokes and light pressure to persuade lymph fluid to move through the lymphatic vessels. The therapist follows a specific sequence and technique to clear blockages and facilitate drainage.

What happens during a manual lymphatic drainage massage?

An MLD session generally begins with a consultation between you and your therapist so they understand your specific needs. Your therapist will then leave the room; you’ll undress and lie under the blanket on your back on the massage table. You can leave some of your clothes on, but bare skin is best for the treatment.

The therapist typically asks you to practice diaphragmatic breathing, aka breathe deeply. At the same time, they will gently apply pressure to your abdomen to help activate the lymphatic vessels and stimulate lymph flow. The therapist then moves their hands in a specific pattern, following the natural direction of lymphatic circulation; the pressure applied is lighter than other massage techniques, and there is no oil or lotion.

During a session, you might feel waves of headaches or nausea. These side effects are typically short-lived.

Before a session, don’t eat a big meal, and after the treatment “…you should not exercise or have an active day,” says Cobo. “You don’t want to get MLD and then go for a big bike ride, or drink alcohol or caffeine. You want to give the body a chance to continue processing. You should drink more water. It’s a healing process.”

Manual lymphatic drainage benefits

Manual lymphatic drainage offers a wide range of benefits for the body and the mind. Key advantages include:

1. Waste removal: MLD helps to remove waste and excess fluid from the body. You may notice you have to urinate more after a session.
2. Reduced swelling: MLD is particularly effective in reducing swelling caused by lymphedema, the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in tissues. MLD helps to redirect pooling fluid.
3. Enhanced immune function: The lymphatic system is crucial to the body’s immune response. MLD can boost the immune system’s effectiveness, reducing the potential for infections and illnesses.
4. Relaxation and stress relief: Manual lymphatic drainage induces deep relaxation like any massage therapy. The soothing strokes promote a sense of calm.

Anecdotally, Cobo has seen many MLD clients in search of relief from long COVID. Supporting research is still emerging. Also, “A lot of people like to go with Mother Earth. When the seasons change, they want to change with them,” she says.

Is manual lymphatic drainage worth it?

The value of manual lymphatic drainage largely depends on your individual needs and circumstances. MLD can be highly beneficial if you are experiencing swelling, lymphedema, or recovering from surgery (such as breast augmentations or liposuction).

It’s also worth considering if you frequently feel fatigued, have a weakened immune system, or simply want to relax. MLD is a safe treatment for most, but you should skip it if you have a heart condition, kidney failure, blood clots, or an infection.

We want to be sure the treatment is right for you, so you’re unable to book an MLD treatment on our appointments page.

Instead, call us at 718-415-0738 to speak with a member of our front desk team. They will ask you some basic medical history questions and pair you with one of our trained and certified manual lymphatic drainage specialists. Your therapist will assess your situation, discuss your goals, and tailor your session to your specific needs.