Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), is a specialised form of massage that has powerful cleansing, relaxing, pain relieving and immunological effects on the body. Lymphatic drainage massage is unique because no oil or wax is used.

During the treatment very gentle pressure is applied to move lymph fluid towards the centre of the body with gentle, flowing, rhythmic massage strokes combined with soft pumping movements on the lymph nodes to open them up. Our immune system is connected to the lymphatic system, that is why by increasing the production of antibodies and flushing out the waste products from the system it helps alleviate pressure on cells, allowing them to reproduce faster and it can improve the body’s resilience and healing.

It can be beneficial to a wide range of physical conditions, as it boosts the immune system, reduces puffiness caused by fluid retention improving the appearance of the skin and helps with poor circulation.

With Manual Lymphatic Drainage we can help with:

Recovery after cold or flu
Stress, anxiety, low energy level or tension
Lymphedema – swelling from extra lymph fluid in your tissues
Lipoedema – water retention due to hormone fluctuation (perimenopause, menopause, HRT)
Swelling as a result of trauma (torn ligaments, sprains, fractures)
Pregnancy (swollen ankles, legs, arms or puffy face)
IBS, Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis
Chronic conditions such as fatigue, fibromyalgia, hay fever or other allergies, sinusitis, migraines, rheumatoid arthritis
Long COVID-19 symptoms
Mild cellulite
Acne, rosacea and other skin conditions, including scarring from surgery
Before and after long haul flight

Manual lymphatic drainage massage is a safe treatment, however there are some conditions and circumstances, it is not recommended for examples, if you have inflammatory disease, active cancer or any undiagnosed lump, any serious circulatory problems or major heart condition, kidney failure, blood clots, organ transplant or any infection.

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage

The Brazilian method mixes the health benefits of traditional manual lymphatic drainage and aesthetic purposes. It blends traditional manual lymphatic drainage massage techniques with dynamic sculpting/contouring movements and myofascial release that stimulates the lymphatic system and instantly target bloating, puffiness, and water retention.

The Brazilian lymphatic drainage is firmer and more vigorous than a normal Manual lymphatic drainage massage.

Key Benefits:

Reduces water retention, bloating, and cellulite.
Enhances body contouring and skin texture.
Boosts circulation, detoxification, and tissue oxygenation.
Supports post-surgical recovery and healing.
Relieves stress, PMS, peri- and menopausal symptoms, and digestive issues, like IBS.
It can help with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, fatigue, sinusitis, Rheumatoid arthritis.
Improves self-esteem and overall well-being.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a safe treatment, however there are some conditions and circumstances, it is not recommended for examples, if you have inflammatory disease, active cancer or any undiagnosed lump, any serious circulatory problems or major heart condition, kidney failure, blood clots, organ transplant, or any infection.

Manual vs. Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage

While both techniques aim to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote detoxification, they differ in style, purpose, and application.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a medically developed technique that uses extremely gentle, rhythmic strokes to reduce swelling, support immune function, and assist in post-surgical recovery. It is commonly used in clinical settings to manage conditions such as lymphedema.

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage (BLD) combines therapeutic lymphatic stimulation with aesthetic sculpting techniques. Using slightly firmer, faster movements, it targets fluid retention and bloating, offering immediate visible results such as enhanced contours, reduced puffiness, improve cellulite appearance and skin tightening.

Regular lymphatic drainage sessions are recommended to maintain optimal lymph flow, reduce fluid retention, and support long-term aesthetic or therapeutic results.

For cosmetic goals like contouring or reducing bloating, consistency helps sustain visible improvements. In medical or post-surgical cases, ongoing treatment aids healing, prevents swelling recurrence, and supports tissue recovery. If you want to know more and if manual lymphatic drainage or Brazilian lymphatic drainage is right for you please contact us.

Testimonial

What our patients say – real stories of recovery & care

    
 
 
         
   Anirudh Mathur 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been coming here since 6 months now for physiotherapy on my ankle ligament, and I cannot recommend it enough! I have been treated by Nuzhat Shaikh, who has helped me reduce my daily chronic pain, and has helped me gain confidence in going back into sports. She took the time to understand my problems and provided bespoke treatment, tracking progress every session and recommending mitigating actions as required. Highly recommend!
  
 
        
   Valentin Balaschenko 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As an amateur long-distance triathlete, I developed a sciatic nerve injury that plagued me for over six months, to the point where I stopped enjoying the sport I love. Kirsty quickly identified the root cause, and after several treatment sessions the pain gradually disappeared. She also recommended physiotherapy exercises and Pilates classes to address the underlying issue and help prevent it from returning. The best validation of the treatment came recently when I completed an ultra-marathon with significant elevation, putting my sciatica to the ultimate test. There wasn’t a single niggle—my leg felt as good as new. Thank you, Kirsty, and the entire Wandsworth Therapy team, for helping me get back to doing what I love!
  
 
        
   Natasha Kelly 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Wandsworth Physiotherapy after straining my ACL. Nuzhat tailored my sessions to my injury and set out a clear routine of exercises to aid my recovery. Nuzhat was flexible with timings, provided massage, acupuncture and exercises. Thank you so much.
  
 
        
   Rhys Harris 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Christina was extremely helpful during my physio sessions, super clear throughout and prescribed the best approach to resolve my overloaded arch. Thank you!
  
 
        
   Henry 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nuzhat has been my physiotherapist at Nine Elms for the last two months. Don't be fooled the quiet demeanour of this unassuming lady. She is an outstanding physiotherapist. Her knowledge of health and nutrition and her techniques (which include focused massage and acupuncture) to deal with my tendonitis and muscle strain have put me well on the road to recovery. The exercises she has given me in the WPO app (stretching, bands, ball, light weights) are tailored to me and have been a big help. Nuzhat, I can't thank you enough.
  
 
        
   Harry Symes-Thompson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience with Nuzhat. I had been struggling with pack pain for over 6 months and she conducted a comprehensive assessment of the issue and put me on a path to recovery through a combination of manual therapy and acupuncture. I am so happy with the progress and Nuzhat has been brilliant.
  
 
        
   Malgorzata Krala 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am so happy with my physiotherapy sessions. They were able to fix me twice now each time quicker than expected.
  
 
        
   Michael Fox 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Friendly staff and very professional. Diagnosed and treated my shoulder issue very quickly with no re occurrence of the problem. Would highly recommend.
  
 
        
   Maggie Sekara 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Pilates with Shreya - one of the best Pilates classes I've attended. I go to the Advanced Clinical Pilates class with Shreya at Wandsworth Physiotherapy and really enjoy it. The class is challenging and intense in the best way, and I always leave feeling like I've had a deep and effective workout. Shreya is friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. She pays close attention to form, ensures everyone is exercising safely, and structures the class brilliantly - with a warm-up to prepare the body for deeper work and a relaxing body scan at the end. I attended a couple of beginner classes before joining the advanced group, but once I moved to Shreya's class it was a perfect fit for my experience level. The sessions are focused, engaging and incredibly rewarding. Highly recommend.
  
 
  
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 489 reviews

Manual Lymphatic Drainage