Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle grip technique that stimulates the drainage of lymph fluid in the tissue and thus reduces swelling (oedema). With circular, rhythmic and light-pressure movements, fluid is shifted out of the tissue towards the lymph nodes.

The lymphatic system removes tissue fluid, proteins and metabolic waste. If this drainage is disrupted – for example after surgery, after removal of lymph nodes, with lymphoedema or after injuries – fluid builds up in the tissue. Manual lymphatic drainage supports transport with very gentle, broad grips. Unlike a classic massage, hardly any pressure is applied: the skin is only lightly shifted, because the fine lymph vessels lie just beneath the surface. The treatment is relaxing and pain-free.

A session lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the affected body region. For pronounced lymphoedema, lymphatic drainage is part of 'complex decongestive therapy' and is combined with compression bandages or stockings, skin care and movement. Regularity is important: with chronic oedema, recurring treatments are needed to maintain the result.

Typical areas of application are lymphoedema (e.g. of the arm after breast cancer treatment), swelling after surgery or sports injuries, supportive treatment for lipoedema and swelling in pregnancy. Lymphatic drainage must not be used in cases such as acute infections, untreated heart failure or fresh thrombosis – here medical assessment is needed first.

With a medical prescription, basic insurance covers medical lymphatic drainage as part of physiotherapy. As a cosmetic or wellness application without medical indication you pay yourself; the guide price is roughly CHF 60 to 110 per session depending on duration (no guarantee).

Example

After knee surgery a patient's leg is badly swollen and tight. The doctor prescribes lymphatic drainage. The physiotherapist works the swelling towards the groin with gentle grips and applies a compression bandage. Over several sessions the swelling recedes and the knee's mobility improves.

Compare providers & prices

Find matching providers and compare prices:

Lymphatic drainage→Physiotherapists near you→Physiotherapists→Massage studios near you→Massage studios→Naturopaths near you→

Frequently asked

What is the difference between lymphatic drainage and massage?

A classic massage works with distinct pressure on the muscles to loosen them and boost circulation. Lymphatic drainage uses very gentle, light-pressure grips just beneath the skin to move lymph fluid away and reduce swelling.

Does health insurance pay for lymphatic drainage?

With a medical prescription and medical indication, basic insurance covers lymphatic drainage as part of physiotherapy. Without a medical reason, as a wellness application, you pay yourself – roughly CHF 60 to 110 per session (no guarantee).

How often do you need lymphatic drainage?

For acute swelling after surgery a few sessions are often enough. For chronic lymphoedema, lymphatic drainage is an ongoing therapy that is repeated regularly – sometimes several times a week – and combined with compression.

← All glossary terms