Managing Lipoedema: The Power of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

June is Lipoedema Awareness Month, bringing much-needed attention to a condition that

affects millions of people worldwide, predominantly women. Lipoedema is a chronic disorder

characterised by the abnormal accumulation of fat cells in the legs, thighs, buttocks, and

sometimes arms, often accompanied by pain, tenderness, and swelling.

While there's no cure for lipoedema, effective management strategies can significantly improve quality of life and slow progression. Among these, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) stands out as a cornerstone treatment.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised massage technique that uses gentle, rhythmic

movements to stimulate the lymphatic system. This therapeutic approach helps move lymphatic fluid through the body's natural drainage pathways, reducing swelling and promoting healing.

Benefits of MLD for Lipoedema Management

Reduces Swelling and Inflammation MLD helps mobilise excess fluid trapped in tissues,

providing relief from the heaviness and swelling that characterises lipoedema. Regular sessions can lead to noticeable improvements in limb circumference and comfort.

Pain Relief Many clients experience significant pain reduction following MLD treatments. The

gentle technique helps decrease tissue tension and inflammation, addressing one of the most challenging aspects of living with lipoedema.

Improved Mobility By reducing swelling and stiffness, MLD can enhance range of motion and make daily activities more manageable. This improvement in mobility often leads to increased confidence and participation in physical activities.

Enhanced Circulation MLD stimulates both lymphatic and blood circulation, promoting better tissue health and potentially slowing the progression of the condition.

Emotional Well-being The therapeutic touch and visible improvements from MLD treatments

often provide psychological benefits, helping clients feel more in control of their condition.

Additional Management Strategies

Compression Therapy Medical-grade compression garments work synergistically with MLD to maintain fluid reduction between treatments. Proper fitting by a qualified professional is

essential.

Pump Systems - Medirent

Pump systems provide significant benefits for lipoedema clients by improving lymphatic

drainage and reducing the painful swelling and fluid accumulation characteristic of the condition.

When used between manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) treatments as part of a maintenance

plan, these systems help sustain the therapeutic benefits achieved during professional

sessions, preventing fluid re-accumulation while maintaining improved circulation and comfort levels until the next appointment

Exercise and Movement Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and yoga can support lymphatic drainage naturally while building strength and endurance.

Vibration Plate Therapy Whole-body vibration therapy using a vibration plate can be

particularly beneficial for lipoedema management. The gentle vibrations help stimulate

lymphatic flow, improve circulation, and can be especially helpful for those with limited mobility.

Even short 10-15 minute sessions can provide therapeutic benefits while being gentle on

sensitive tissues.

Dry Brushing This simple self-care technique involves using a natural bristle brush to gently

massage the skin in circular motions toward the heart. Dry brushing can help stimulate

lymphatic drainage, improve circulation, and may help with the skin texture changes often

associated with lipoedema. It's best performed before showering and should be done with light pressure to avoid irritating sensitive skin.

Healthy Nutrition While diet doesn't cause or cure lipoedema, maintaining a balanced,

anti-inflammatory diet can support overall health and may help manage associated symptoms. A number of clients find the Keto or carnivore diet to be effective.

Skin Care Gentle, moisturising skincare routines help maintain skin integrity and prevent

infections that can complicate lipoedema.

Professional Support Working with healthcare providers who understand lipoedema, including physiotherapists, remedial massage therapists trained in manual lymphatic drainage, dietitian's, and mental health professionals, creates a comprehensive care team.

Taking the Next Step

If you're living with lipoedema, remember that you're not alone, and effective help is available. MLD performed by a qualified lymphatic drainage therapist can be transformative in managing symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Consider scheduling a consultation with Jo who is a qualified MLD therapist and has extensive experience with lipoedema. She can assess your individual needs and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your current situation, along with compression therapy recommendations, and lifestyle modifications.

During Lipoedema Awareness Month and beyond, let's continue to spread understanding about this condition and the hope that comes with proper management. With the right combination of treatments, including the powerful benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage, living well with lipoedema is not just possible—it's achievable.