Rakhee Mediratta
Osteopathy
Central & West London ~ Chalfont
Rakhee has helped over 5,000+ patients in 19 years
Registered Osteopath & Advanced Licensed Perrin Technique Practitioner in London & South East England
for Chronic Fatigue/ME & Fibromyalgia using The Perrin Technique
Manual Lymphatic Drainage in London
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, hands-on technique that uses slow, rhythmic movements and very light pressure on the skin. Unlike a traditional massage, it follows specific sequences and uses a much lighter touch.
People often explore MLD when looking for a gentle treatment that promotes relaxation and comfort, particularly when they prefer a lighter approach to hands-on therapy.
At Rakhee Mediratta Osteopathy, MLD-style treatments are offered as a complementary wellbeing service. Treatment is adapted to the individual, with appropriate precautions taken where medical conditions, swelling or recent surgery may affect suitability.
If you are considering MLD, it is important to understand what the treatment involves, what it may be appropriate for and when specialist medical advice is needed.
Anna has completed formal training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage and provides treatments within the scope of her qualifications, training, and professional insurance.
Understanding the lymphatic system
The lymphatic system is part of the body's circulatory and immune systems. It consists of a network of vessels, lymph nodes and other tissues that help transport lymph fluid around the body, support immune function and return excess fluid from tissues to the bloodstream.
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Lymph fluid contains water, proteins, fats, immune cells and other substances collected from body tissues. The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance and plays an important role in the body's defence against infection.
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When lymphatic drainage is impaired, fluid can accumulate in the tissues and cause swelling. One example is lymphoedema, a long-term condition that requires appropriate assessment and management.
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Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses specific, gentle hand movements designed to encourage the movement of lymph fluid. The technique and treatment plan depend on the reason for treatment and the practitioner's training.
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It is worth distinguishing this from claims that MLD detoxifies the entire body or removes unspecified toxins. Its established role in specialist care relates primarily to lymphatic fluid management, while a general wellbeing session should not be presented as a treatment for a medical condition.
What happens during a session?
During an MLD session, very light, rhythmic techniques are applied in specific sequences. The pressure used is lighter than traditional massage and is adapted to each individual’s comfort level.
Clients may choose MLD-style treatments when experiencing:
• A feeling of puffiness or heaviness
• General fluid retention
• Periods of inactivity
• Post-surgical wellbeing support (with appropriate medical clearance)
• Stress-related tension
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MLD is provided as a complementary therapy intended to support relaxation and general wellbeing. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent medical conditions and does not replace medical care.
If you have a diagnosed medical condition, swelling of unknown origin, or recent surgery, medical clearance may be required prior to treatment.
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Who might consider Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
People enquire about MLD for different reasons. Some are looking for a gentle, relaxing treatment, while others want to understand whether it may be suitable as part of their wider wellbeing routine.
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Clients may be interested in MLD-style treatments when they:
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Prefer a gentle, light-pressure approach rather than a deep massage.
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Want to make time for relaxation and general wellbeing.
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Find conventional massage too intense or uncomfortable.
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Have questions about whether a gentle hands-on treatment is appropriate for their circumstances.​
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These are reasons to enquire, not guarantees that MLD will address a particular symptom or condition.
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If you have persistent swelling, a diagnosed lymphatic condition or swelling that has not been medically assessed, seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional before booking. Specialist lymphoedema care may require a qualified lymphoedema practitioner and a broader management plan.
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At Rakhee Mediratta Osteopathy, suitability is considered in light of the service offered, the practitioner's training and any relevant health precautions.
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Learn more about Manual Lymphatic Drainage
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If you would like to understand MLD in more detail, explore our guides:
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What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage? Learn how the lymphatic system works, how MLD is performed and how it differs from conventional massage.
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MLD and Specific Needs: Explore considerations for different circumstances, including post-surgical recovery, general wellbeing and when specialist advice may be needed.
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Manual Lymphatic Drainage Questions and Answers: Find answers to common questions about sessions, suitability, preparation and what to expect.
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If you are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for you, contact the clinic to discuss your circumstances before booking.