How Lymphatic Drainage Can Help Improve Quality of Life Before, During, and After Breast Cancer Treatment

Dealing with breast cancer is tough and involves different treatments like surgery, chemo, and radiation. These treatments are crucial in fighting cancer but can bring side effects like chest tightness, swelling, nerve pain, and even lymphedema – a condition where lymphatic fluid builds up and needs ongoing care. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), also called “lymphatic massage", or "lymphedema therapy", is a gentle but powerful way to handle these symptoms during and after battling breast cancer.

Understanding Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, particularly when lymph nodes are removed or damaged during surgery. The lymphatic system, responsible for maintaining fluid balance and filtering toxins from the body, may become compromised, leading to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This accumulation often manifests as swelling in the affected arm or breast, causing discomfort and limiting mobility.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized technique that focuses on reducing lymphedema (swelling) in the arms which can result from mastectomy, axillary lymph node removal, or radiation therapy, among other things. Your therapist will gently stretch your skin to help get your lymphatic system flowing better. It was created back in the 1930s by Dr. Emil Vodder. Basically, gentle strokes and movements are used to help reduce swelling by encouraging excess fluid to move through your lymphatic system. Additionally, lymphedema therapy can help prevent complications associated with the condition, such as infections and skin changes.

And the best part? It's a painless and soothing experience, thanks to Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs) who are experts in reducing swelling. If you've faced breast cancer, it's essential to find a CLT rather than a massage therapist claiming to specialize in lymphatic massage. You need a professional who has the expertise to help you manage swelling effectively. (Read this article about understanding lymphatic therapist qualifications.)

Beyond the physical benefits, lymphedema therapy can also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. As if breast cancer wasn't enough of a gut-punch, living with a condition that causes visible swelling can be challenging, taking a toll on self-confidence and overall quality of life. By incorporating lymphedema therapy into your self-care/wellness routine, you can not only improve your physical symptoms but also boost your confidence and sense of well-being.

For those who, like me, enjoy a good list - here are some of the benefits of lymphedema therapy before, during, and after breast cancer treatment.

1. Reducing Swelling: The primary goal of MLD is to reduce swelling by promoting the drainage of accumulated lymphatic fluid. The gentle strokes of MLD help move fluid from congested areas, alleviating discomfort and restoring a more natural fluid balance.

2. Pain Management: Breast cancer survivors often experience pain and discomfort due to lymphedema. MLD has been shown to effectively reduce pain levels, providing relief without the need for invasive procedures or medications.

3. Improved Range of Motion: Lymphedema can limit the range of motion in the affected arm. MLD’s gentle techniques aid in restoring flexibility and mobility, allowing survivors to regain functionality in their daily activities.

4. Enhanced Immune Function: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immune function. By promoting lymphatic circulation, MLD supports the body’s ability to remove toxins and waste products, ultimately boosting the immune system.

5. Psychological Well-being:  Manual Lymphatic Drainage therapy can make a huge difference for breast cancer survivors grappling with the aftermath of treatment-related pain, swelling, or lymphedema. This gentle and non-invasive therapy offers a holistic approach to managing emotional distress and promoting overall well-being on physical and emotional levels. As an integral part of the post-cancer recovery journey, MLD stands testament to the power of gentle touch in fostering healing and restoration.

   
   

The MLD Session: What to Expect

A typical MLD session begins with a comprehensive assessment by a certified therapist to determine the extent of lymphedema and tailor the treatment accordingly. The actual MLD session involves gentle, rhythmic strokes applied to the skin, following the natural flow of the lymphatic system. The therapist may use varying pressure and specific sequences of movements to encourage the drainage of lymphatic fluid.

Typically, in order to get the most out of your MLD treatment session, your therapist will ask you to undress except for modest underpants or loose-fitting shorts so that the lymph nodes can be accessed conveniently. As always though, YOU are in control of your level of undress. Please don't hesitate to let your therapist know your level of comfort. We can work around just about any situation. Here's to a happy, healthy you!