Application of manual lymphatic drainage in children

Abstract

Lymphedema is a clinical complication characterized by the excessive accumulation of lymphatic fluid, leading to swelling, most commonly localized in the limbs. In pediatric patients, lymphedema occurs less frequently than in adults and may occur as a result of congenital malformations or acquired damage to lymphatic vessels and nodes. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is one of the main and gentle methods for managing lymphatic stasis and plays a central role in the complex approach to restoring normal lymphatic function in pediatric patients. The careful and precisely dosed execution of this specialized technique has been shown to effectively support both the prevention and treatment of lymphedema in children with cardiovascular, urinary, and endocrine disorders, following surgical interventions, and in cases of post-traumatic complications. This therapeutic approach significantly contributes to improving their overall quality of life. The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of manual lymphatic drainage application in children.