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JOM

Osteopathic manipulative medicine lymphatic drainage techniques for venous insufficiency and peripheral arterial disease: a review

By JOM Staff

10.09.26

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are associated with significant morbidity, often manifesting as edema, pain, and nonhealing ulcers. Despite standard therapies such as compression, pharmacologic management, and surgical interventions, recurrence rates remain high, and outcomes are limited. Osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) lymphatic drainage techniques, including pedal pump maneuvers, aim to enhance venous return, reduce interstitial stasis, and improve overall vascular and lymphatic function. Such approaches may complement conventional therapies by addressing physiologic barriers to healing. Literature addressing OMM lymphatic drainage techniques in this population is sparse, creating a gap in evidence-based options for improving vascular and wound-healing outcomes.