Manual Lymphatic Drainage: What It Is and Who It's For
If you've heard of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), you may associate it with post-surgical massage or lymphedema. While those are common reasons people seek it out, MLD can also be helpful when you're dealing with swelling after an injury or simply want a very gentle, relaxing massage.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized massage technique that uses very light, slow and rhythmic movements to encourage the natural movement of lymph through the body. And when I say light, I mean light! MLD is very different from deep tissue or sports massage. The lymphatic vessels we're trying to influence are close to the surface, so more pressure isn't better.
True MLD is also noninvasive. I do not perform incisional drainage, which is outside my scope of practice as a massage therapist.
Why would someone get MLD?
One of the most common reasons clients come to me for MLD is swelling. That might be swelling after an orthopedic injury or surgery, or during recovery from a cosmetic procedure. I also work with clients with lymphedema and other lymphatic concerns when massage is appropriate for them.
And sometimes people simply love MLD because it is incredibly relaxing. If you're accustomed to thinking that massage has to hurt to be effective, MLD may change your mind.
MLD after surgery
I've done additional training specifically in post-surgical massage, including plastic surgery recovery and fibrosis, massage after tummy tuck, breast massage after surgery and axillary web syndrome.
After surgery, MLD may be used to help manage swelling and support the body's normal lymphatic processes during recovery. The timing and type of massage that's appropriate depends on the procedure and the individual, and sometimes medical clearance is needed before we begin. MLD is used after both cosmetic and orthopedic procedures. Again, this is gentle, noninvasive lymphatic work — not incisional drainage.
What does an MLD session feel like?
MLD is performed with slow, rhythmic movements and very light pressure. Depending on why you're coming in, I may work primarily in one area or incorporate MLD into a larger session. Most people find it extremely relaxing. It's not unusual to wonder whether something so gentle is actually doing anything!
My MLD training
I'm a Certified Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist (CMLDT), trained in the Vodder Technique through Klose Training. I've also completed additional coursework in post-surgical recovery, fibrosis, breast surgery, tummy tuck recovery and axillary web syndrome.
MLD has become a significant part of my massage practice here in Portland, Maine, and I enjoy being able to offer something so different from the deeper sports and therapeutic work I've done for many years.
If you're not sure whether MLD is appropriate for what you're dealing with, feel free to get in touch before scheduling.