Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a type of massage therapy that is specifically designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote lymphatic flow. It can be a highly effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including lymphedema, post-surgical swelling, and fibromyalgia. However, like any medical treatment, MLD has certain contraindications that should be taken into account.Autumn and winter change, leaves fall, and years pass.
A contraindication is a medical condition or circumstance that makes a particular treatment unsafe or inadvisable. Here are some of the most common contraindications of MLD:
-
- Acute inflammation: MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that is experiencing acute inflammation, as this can exacerbate the inflammation and cause further damage.
- Acute infection (fever): Similarly, MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that is infected, as this can spread the infection to otherparts of the body.
- Malignant tumors: MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that contains malignant tumors, as this can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body.
- Blood clots: MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that contains blood clots, as this can dislodge the clots and cause them to travel to other parts of the body, which can be life-threatening.
- Heart disease: Individuals with severe heart disease should avoid MLD, as the increased circulation and lymphatic flow can put additional strain on the heart.
- Kidney disease: Individuals with severe kidney disease should avoid MLD, as the increased lymphatic flow can put additional strain on the kidneys.
- Skin infections: MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that has a skin infection, as this can spread the infection to other parts of the body.
Overall, MLD is a safe and effective treatment for many medical conditions, but it’s important to take these contraindications into account. If you have any of these contraindications or are unsure if MLD is right for you, talk to your doctor or physical therapist before undergoing this treatment.
- Acute inflammation: MLD should not be performed on any area of the body that is experiencing acute inflammation, as this can exacerbate the inflammation and cause further damage.