Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) safe for those with breast cancer?

In a previous post, I discussed MLD and CDT, and their differences. Once question I received was regarding breast cancer, and the potential for increased risk of recurrence after all cancer treatments have been completed. I was told by my mentors that recurrence of breast cancer due to MLD is not a risk. I was happy to find a study in the National Library of Medicine that concludes - almost - the same thing:

MLD is a gentle procedure that does not increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence in patients who develop BCRL.

Their study concludes that MLD performed on women with breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) are not at increased risk of recurrence of breast cancer due to those MLD treatments. So, yes, MLD is safe for those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, and who have undergone treatment (as long as you don’t have any other contraindicated conditions).

I will say in addition, finding a therapist certified in MLD with a special focus on oncology and post-surgical treatments is highly recommended, especially if you are receiving MLD for lymphedema specifically related to surgery. Always check your practicioner’s education and licensure. They should be able to tell you where they went for education and how many hours were recorded for the course.

Stay safe and be well!