How do MLD and compression therapy work together?

• A. MLD stimulates lymph movement; compression sustains and augments drainage.
• B. Compression eliminates edema by itself; MLD is optional.
• C. MLD replaces the need for compression.
• D. Compression worsens edema when used with MLD.

Answer: (A)

MLD and compression therapy work together by using a two-step approach: MLD stimulates lymph movement and helps direct fluid toward the body’s remaining functional lymphatic pathways, reducing swelling. Compression therapy provides external pressure that lowers capillary filtration, aids lymph uptake into the vessels, and prevents fluid from re-accumulating in the tissues. Together, MLD initiates drainage, and compression sustains and augments it, creating a continuous flow of lymph that reduces edema more effectively than either method alone. Compression by itself often cannot fully remove edema in lymphedema, MLD does not replace compression, and when applied correctly, compression does not worsen edema; it supports what MLD starts.