The lymphatic system has a very important role: collecting extracellular fluid and returning it to the blood circulation. If there is any kind of dysfunction in the lymphatic system, then the affected area becomes swollen. This is called oedema.

It is important to see a doctor if you have any oedema, because there can be many underlying causes. A clear diagnosis is needed to treat the oedema safely. Lymphatic drainage is not recommended in case of certain conditions, such as acute infections, certain heart conditions and thrombosis. These conditions must first be ruled out before commencing treatment.

Lymphoedema is common in the arm after breast removal surgery or after removing lymph nodes in the armpit. Certain breast surgery techniques can cause transient thigh swelling. Other surgeries or injuries can also cause oedema as well as scarring. 

Once your doctor identifies the cause of the swelling, we can start therapy to help reduce it. Treatment includes manual drainage, where specific techniques are used to aid the fluid back from the extremities and affected areas into the blood circulation. The treatment feels like a very light massage, moving the skin in the direction of lymph circulation without any friction.

It is advised to use compression garments to hold and augment the decrease in circumference after treatment.

Depending on the circumstance, treatment may be needed for only a short time, until full healing takes place, for example in case of an ankle sprain.

In case of chronic conditions affecting the lymphatic system, lifelong treatment may be necessary. This may be the case in certain lymph node resections or chronic venous insufficiency. 

You can learn the manual treatment yourself, so that you can continue treatment on your own at home if necessary.