Praxis Loten
Praxis Loten
← Back to blog
Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage in Eupen — for whom and when?

6 min read••Fabienne Dormann
Swelling and heaviness in the limbs can significantly impact daily life. Manual lymphatic drainage using the Leduc method is a specialised medical treatment that goes far beyond a simple massage. It specifically activates the lymphatic system and helps your body remove excess fluid. At our practice in Eupen, Fabienne Dormann has been supporting patients with oedema and lymphoedema for years — with an individual, evidence-based approach.

"Drainage is just a massage" — wrong

A common misconception: manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is just a relaxation massage. In reality, it is a precise medical technique with specific pressure, rhythm and direction — designed to physiologically activate the lymphatic system. The manoeuvres are gentle (under 40 mmHg pressure), but their effect is measurable: reduction of swelling, pain relief and improvement of tissue mobility. The evidence: studies show significant pain reduction and improved quality of life in patients with lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment. The Leduc method MLD — used at our practice in Eupen — follows the natural anatomical pathway of lymphatic vessels.

Who is lymphatic drainage suitable for?

Lymphatic drainage is, among many indications, particularly valuable for: patients with post-cancer lymphoedema (especially after breast cancer with lymph node removal), post-operative swelling after knee or hip replacement, chronic venous insufficiency with leg oedema, pregnant women with swollen legs, and patients after cosmetic surgery or injuries with persistent swelling. The technique acts not only on volume, but also on pain perception — through a calming effect on the nervous system.

The golden rule of lymphatic drainage

"Drainage doesn't work alone — it's a team effort between you and your therapist."
Lymphatic drainage is most effective when part of combined decongestive therapy (CDT). The therapist's hands reactivate lymphatic flow, but to maintain results, your involvement is essential: compression bandaging, decongestive exercises, skin care and self-drainage. This comprehensive approach — recommended by international guidelines — maximises long-term benefits.

3 reflexes for swelling

  1. Move regularly** — Even light activity (walking, cycling, swimming) activates muscles and promotes lymph flow. Your muscles are a natural "pump" for lymph.
  2. Elevation and compression** — For leg oedema: elevate legs regularly and wear prescribed compression stockings. The combination is more effective than either alone.
  3. Act early** — The sooner an oedema is treated, the better the prognosis. Don't wait until swelling becomes chronic. In Eupen, we can see you at short notice.

When is lymphatic drainage contraindicated?

Patient safety is our absolute priority. Lymphatic drainage must not be performed in cases of: active infection (cellulitis, erysipelas) in the treatment area, suspected or confirmed deep vein thrombosis, decompensated heart failure, or untreated active cancer in the drainage territory. When in doubt, we collaborate closely with your physician to ensure safe care. If you have a medical prescription, please share it with us — it guides our treatment adaptation.

At Praxis Loten in Eupen: Leduc method drainage

  1. Individualised assessment** — Fabienne Dormann evaluates the extent of oedema, its origin and its impact on your daily life. Every plan is unique.
  2. Certified Leduc technique** — Trained at the school of Professor Leduc (UCL Brussels), Fabienne applies an internationally recognised technique with specific call and resorption manoeuvres.
  3. Self-management education** — You learn self-drainage techniques, decongestive exercises and compression principles to maintain results between sessions.
  4. Medical collaboration** — Working closely with your doctor, oncologist or surgeon, we ensure coordinated and safe care.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a medical or physiotherapy consultation. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.

References

  1. 1Huang TW et al. Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Ann Phys Rehabil Med. 2022;65(5):101650.
  2. 2Ezzo J et al. Manual lymphatic drainage for lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(5):CD003475.
  3. 3Müller M et al. Effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage in intensive phase I therapy of breast cancer-related lymphedema. Support Care Cancer. 2024;32(1):56.
  4. 4Thompson B et al. Manual lymphatic drainage: the evidence behind the efficacy. J Lymphoedema. 2024;19(1):12-18.
  5. 5International Lymphoedema Framework. Best Practice for the Management of Lymphoedema. 2nd ed. MEP Ltd; 2012.