lymphatic drainage
at reha-prime!

The lymph vessels have their own muscles that "pump". This pumping effect pushes the lymph fluid forward and the backflow of lymph is prevented by small valves in the lymph vessels.

Manual lymphatic drainage is a technique in which the therapist uses a gentle pumping movement to stimulate fluid absorption in the lymphatic vessels in order to promote vascular function. Targeted hand movements activate and stimulate the lymphatic system's own mobility, which increases the lymph's ability to drain.

Drainage begins in the neck area to clear the way for lymph from other parts of the body. The armpit and inguinal glands in the healthy areas are then massaged and drained. For example, space is created in the well-functioning parts of the body to absorb lymph from the problem area. Subsequent massage of the oedema area creates an alternative drainage pathway. This is followed by massage in the oedema area, in the direction of the watershed in a well-functioning lymphatic area.

It is often scars or stubborn areas of connective tissue that impede lymphatic drainage. The therapist will try to make these areas flexible and soft using special techniques. The softer the tissue is, the better the oedema area can be decongested.