The Effects of Manual Lymphatic Drainage on the Autonomic Nerve System

Overview

Forty healthy women who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. In the single-blind randomized controlled study, the participants were divided into 3 groups manual lymphatic drainage(MLD), sham MLD, and control group. After evaluating the demographic information, blood pressure, and heart rate variability (HRV) of the participants, the cold pressure test was applied. Immediately after the test, blood pressure and HRV were re-evaluated. The MLD group received short neck, abdominal, and lymph node stimulation and right arm MLD applications. A sham protocol was applied to the sham MLD group. The control group was asked to lie on their back for 10 minutes. After the application, blood pressure and HRV were re-evaluated.

The participants included in the study were randomly divided into 3 groups; manual lymph drainage, sham manual lymph drainage, and a control group in the computer program. Participants rested for 5 minutes before the first evaluation. The first evaluation was made after the demographic information of the participant was obtained. Within the scope of this evaluation, blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rate variability were evaluated. All assessments were performed on the patient's dominant upper extremity. After the evaluation, cold pressure test was applied to the dominant extremity. A second assessment was made immediately after the test. All of the parameters examined within the scope of the first evaluation were examined for the second time. Appropriate treatment was applied to the group to which the participant belonged. After the treatment, the third evaluation was made and the study was terminated. All participants were asked to avoid exercise, caffeine, energy drinks, and heavy meals at least 1 hour before the test. Environmental noise, light, and temperature were controlled during the test.