Equine manual lymph drainage (MLD) is a gentle, noninvasive massage technique that helps move lymph fluid and toxins through a horse’s body. MLD uses light pumping, rhythmic circular motions, and specific amounts of pressure to move lymph flow. The therapist starts at the point where the lymphatic system connects to the bloodstream and then works toward the affected area. MLD strokes are like those used by human therapists, but also include additional strokes to accommodate a horse’s anatomy.
Dan Hale of the Holistic Equine Academy of Lymphedema explains; “Think of the equine lymph system as an elaborate highway system with back roads, local, county, state, and federal highways as a complex map with lymph traveling from superficial (directly under the skin) and deep (visceral systems) to be eliminated via the urinary system. Feral horses often travel up to 20 miles a day keeping their lymph system in optimal condition. Movement is critical to keep their lymph system robust, allowing them to drain excess waste from their system and maintain the integrity of their extremities. The horse’s hide acts like a natural compression garment to help maintain the lymph system.
Many of our companion horses do not receive adequate exercise. Turn-out it is not considered exercise! Keeping them in stalls for hours or days with little opportunity for adequate exercise will contribute to a congested lymph system. Many horses display temporary swelling in lower extremities due to this management style. Temporary swelling is an indication of a congested lymph system. Some horses who are managed in this fashion may not display visible swelling; it doesn’t mean the system isn’t congested! MLD allows the body to heal much faster when obstacles are removed from the system.”
