Lymphatic drainage and lymphoedema: reducing swelling, feeling lighter
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle technique that helps lymph to drain. For lymphoedema it works best as part of a complete treatment, together with compression, exercise and skin care. At the practice we can combine it with pneumatic compression (pressotherapy) and compression bandaging. We also use it for swelling after surgery or an injury.
Who looks after you for oedema and lymphoedema
Treating oedema requires specific training in lymphology on top of basic physiotherapy training. At the practice, two physiotherapists with dedicated training take care of it.
- Sandra Rohr CAS in angiology at SUPSI (2014): lymphatic drainage and compression bandaging.
- Mattia Luoni Master's in lymphology at the University of Padua, nearing completion, and training in dermatofunctional physiotherapy.
What we treat
Below you will find the situations we see most often.
- Lymphoedema after cancer Swelling in the arm or leg after lymph node removal or radiotherapy, for example after breast cancer.
- Primary lymphoedema When the lymphatic system has worked less well since birth or from a young age.
- After surgery Swelling after a joint replacement or surgery on the knee, shoulder or hand.
- After an injury Sprains and fractures with swelling that is slow to go down.
- Lipoedema Heavy, painful legs that are sensitive to touch. We work on pain and heaviness with compression and exercise; lymphatic drainage does not reduce fatty tissue.
How we work
- 01 Listening and assessment We listen to your story, rule out signs and symptoms that may need further investigation, and measure the swelling to track how it develops.
- 02 Lymphatic drainage and compression Manual lymphatic drainage, combined with pressotherapy where indicated, and compression bandaging done at the practice. When a made-to-measure compression stocking is needed, we tell you where to go: it is what maintains the result.
- 03 Exercise Muscle movement helps lymph to flow. We suggest safe, progressive exercises, including strengthening.
- 04 Self-management We teach you how to look after your skin, manage compression and recognise the signs so you can act early.
Three myths to bust
Sources: Ezzo et al., Cochrane review on lymphatic drainage after breast cancer, 2015 · Schmitz et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2009
When to see a doctor straight away
Contact your doctor or the emergency department straight away if you have:
- a leg or arm that suddenly swells, with pain and warmth
- red, warm and painful skin, with fever or chills
- shortness of breath or chest pain
- swelling in both legs that is getting worse, with tiredness or difficulty breathing
Frequently asked questions about lymphatic drainage
Content by Sandra Rohr and Mattia Luoni, physiotherapists · Updated October 2026
Does lymphatic drainage hurt?
No. It is a very gentle technique, with slow, light movements on the skin. Many people find it relaxing.
What is pressotherapy?
It is a treatment with an inflatable sleeve or boot that applies pressure in waves, from the bottom upwards, to help fluid drain. At the practice we use it alongside manual lymphatic drainage, not instead of compression and exercise.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the cause and extent of the swelling. With lymphoedema there is often a more intensive phase first, followed by a maintenance phase with compression and exercise at home.
Are there cases where lymphatic drainage and pressotherapy cannot be done?
Yes: for example with a thrombosis, an active infection or certain uncontrolled heart conditions. We always check this during the assessment, together with your doctor if needed.
Can I do sport with lymphoedema?
Yes. Regular, progressive physical activity is recommended. We help you decide how to start and how to use compression during sport.
Is lymphatic drainage covered by insurance?
Yes. With a medical prescription it is covered by basic health insurance, like other physiotherapy sessions. All the details on costs and health insurance.
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