Can you do manual lymphatic drainage with a soft dry brush? I have lymphoedema in my arm and breast and have been taught by a physio how to do it myself. I have osteoarthritis in my hands and they hurt when massaging so can’t do it for long
Hello longmuir1949
Thanks for your post.
It sounds as if Self Lymphatic Drainage (SLM) is difficult for you, given that you have osteoarthritis.
I’m not aware if the sort of massage you need to do will be successful using a soft, dry brush.
You could contact the physio you saw to ask them or call the Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN) to ask their opinion. MLD UK is an organisation with a list of therapists who practice massage and may also be able to offer the appropriate advice.
Alternatively, your breast care nurse or GP may be able to refer you to a lymphoedema specialist who can carry out the MLD for you.
I wonder if you have a friend or family member who can be shown how to do the massage.
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Addie
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