Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Manual lymphatic drainage at CPM Pavla Koláře uses light, rhythmic, directional strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce fluid accumulation in the tissues. Performed by trained therapists, this gentle technique is applied to the lymph nodes and lymph vessels to support detoxification, reduce post-surgical oedema, and improve circulation. Available in 20-minute targeted, 60-minute, and 90-minute full-body formats with pack pricing.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specialised massage technique developed by Emil and Estrid Vodder in the 1930s that uses very light, skin-stretching strokes — far lighter than conventional massage — applied in a specific sequence that follows the anatomical routes of the lymphatic system. The aim is to stimulate the contraction of the initial lymphatics (the tiny vessels that absorb fluid from the tissues) and to direct the flow of lymph towards functional lymph node groups, reducing fluid accumulation and supporting the removal of metabolic waste products. At CPM Pavla Koláře, MLD is administered by therapists specifically trained in lymphatic techniques rather than offered as a modification of conventional massage. The 20-minute targeted session focuses on a specific node group — typically the neck, axillary, or inguinal nodes — and is used as a standalone treatment for mild presentations or as an adjunct to device-based drainage. The 60-minute session allows for thorough drainage of a major body region, while the 90-minute session covers full-body drainage in a structured sequence. MLD may support recovery from post-surgical swelling (particularly following orthopaedic or reconstructive procedures), chronic lymphoedema management, sinusitis and chronic sinus congestion, immune system support during illness recovery, and general detoxification and circulation improvement. It is commonly combined with device-based pneumatic compression drainage for enhanced effect, and is also used by athletes managing training-induced soft tissue swelling. The technique is gentle enough to be used in the acute post-operative period when swelling is significant.