Treatment groups—MLD vs. NP
lymphedema, MLD
LYMPHEDEMA, MLD
Treatment of lymphedema started on the first postoperative day after surgery. Either MLD or NP was performed on patients respectively.When performing MLD, the therapist started activation of lymphatic tissue around the neck, with the torso and the affected limb following. Using special grip techniques according to the respective body region, the therapist stimulates the absorption of stagnated fluid from the tissue into the lymphatic system. Basic grip techniques are circling, pumping and turning. MLD was performed by a single therapist who supervised each case.NP is generated in the lymphatic systems of the affected extremity via a silicone-coated applicator (The therapy duration in both groups was 20 min. MLD and NP were performed once every postoperative day. After the treatment, the patient was encouraged to drink 1 L of fluids.