Why is central trunk drainage prioritized before limb drainage?

• A. It reduces central lymphatic resistance and opens proximal channels to improve downstream drainage.
• B. It is optional and can be skipped if time is short.
• C. It makes no difference to downstream drainage.
• D. It increases the workload without benefit.

Answer: (A)

Draining the central trunks first reduces the resistance in the central lymphatic pathways, creating a clear, low‑pressure route for lymph to flow toward the venous system. By opening these proximal channels, downstream drainage from the limbs becomes more efficient, because lymph has a ready exit path through the central ducts. If the limbs are drained first, the central pathways may still resist flow, limiting overall drainage and potentially increasing effort without achieving as much benefit. Central trunk drainage establishes the route and momentum for effective total drainage, which is why it’s prioritized.