The Effect of Manual Lymphatic Drainage on Pressure Injuries: A Pilot Study Example

Pressure injuries are a significant health problem, often resulting from pressure, friction, and impaired tissue perfusion, and are particularly common in individuals in intensive care, those with immobility, and those with chronic diseases. The literature extensively addresses interventions such as pressure reduction, the use of appropriate support surfaces, wound care practices, and nutritional support in the prevention and treatment of pressure injuries. However, the role of manual therapies aimed at improving circulation and lymphatic flow, such as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), in pressure injuries has been examined in a limited number of studies. This research aims to fill a significant gap in the literature by evaluating the potential effects of manual lymphatic drainage on reducing edema, improving tissue perfusion, and supporting the wound healing process in individuals with pressure injuries.