What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized, gentle medical massage technique designed to stimulate the natural flow of lymph fluid, reducing swelling (including lymphedema) and removing built up cellular waste. It uses light, rhythmic, skin-stretching strokes to move fluid away from swollen areas toward functioning lymph nodes.

It is primarily used to treat lymphedema, reduce post-surgical swelling, decrease inflammation, and improve immune system function. This technique begins by clearing areas near the neck to prepare the body, clearing the path of the lymphatic system as it travels back to the heart, and then moves to specific affected, swollen, or congested areas to drain them toward functional lymph nodes.

It is most effective for clients who have swelling, inflammation or whose lymphatic system is not working at full capacity. For people who are healthy and have normal lymphatic system this treatment will not have the same effects but can still be very relaxing.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is so effective at reducing swelling and inflammation that the people who get cosmetic elective surgery get it right away so their scars heal as beautifully as possible and to reduce healing time. It's just as effective for people who get any type of surgery - hip replacements, knee replacements, rotator cuff repairs, abdominal surgeries, hysterectomies, c-sections and more.

I recommend it to anyone who has had surgery because when you are sore, swollen and in pain after surgery MLD can help you feel better faster. It's beneficial soon after surgery and throughout the healing process.

Last year I got certified in doing MLD and it quickly became one of my favorite techniques because it effectively reduces inflammation in a gentle way. If you have any questions about MLD please send me a message using the “Inquire Now” button below.