Lymphatic Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique designed to stimulate lymph circulation. It is one of the techniques used by physiotherapists to treat lymphedema. This system differs from the venous system. First, it is an open system; lymphatic capillaries (initial vessels) lead to the larger lymphatic vessels near the heart. There is no central pump, and lymph transport is facilitated by peristalsis and a system of valves. Its path is discontinuous due to the presence of lymph nodes. Nevertheless, it is stimulated by the same factors as the vascular system, namely respiratory movements, the resulting waves of the heartbeat, and muscular pumping.