Lymphedema

Low-level laser therapy has documented benefit for lymphedema management. Lymphedema is chronic, progressive, and does not respond to diuretics. The lymphatic system has no central pump and depends on muscle movement, breathing, and manual pressure for lymph flow. Muscle contractions are the primary mechanism pushing lymph through vessels, making exercise essential for lymphedema management. Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialized massage technique that moves lymph toward functioning drainage nodes.