Lymphatic Massage (also called Manual Lymphatic Drainage, MLD or Lymphatic Therapy) is a gentle and effective light touch physical therapy technique. It encourages the circulation of lymphatic fluid by using a systematic series of gentle, circular and rhythmic movements directly on the skin. It's very calming to the nervous system.

The lymphatic system is essentially a parallel circulation system. Lymphatic fluid delivers nutrients and antibodies to the tissues, and removes debris such as toxins, cellular waste, bacteria and viruses. This nourishing and cleansing of the tissues allows the body to rejuvenate and heal faster. 

Lymphatic massage helps reduce pain caused by inflammation. Inflammation creates micro- or even visible swelling of stagnant fluid. The fluid's load of metabolic waste and toxins irritates the nerves, causing pain in the tissues and joints. This is often the case with swelling immediately after injury or surgery, or swelling that occurs long after surgical damage to the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, and with chronic inflammatory conditions.

This technique helps both edema (temporary swelling) and its more serious and chronic form, lymphedema. I work with the whole range of conditions needing lymphatic support. This includes lymphedema as an inherited condition, as a side effect of cancer treatment, as well as joint replacements, plastic surgery, other medical interventions, and detoxification. I also work with those at risk of developing lymphedema to help prevent it from occurring.

For those with tight muscles and holding patterns, I often add gentle Orthopedic Massage to the session. I also work with Axillary Web Syndrome (also called AWS or Cording), a painful condition with extremely limited shoulder range of motion, which sometimes occurs after breast cancer surgery. 

Manual Lymphatic Drainage has been proven to be an effective therapy for:

• Acute and chronic inflammation
• Injuries resulting in swelling or bruising
• Preparation for surgery
• Post-surgical recovery
• Post-surgical rehabilitation, including joint replacement
• Lymphedema management
• Lipedema management
• General detoxification and cleansing of the tissues
• Allergies, sinusitis, headaches
• Chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, constipation
• Tension and anxiety

I am certified with both the Vodder School International and the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, and have worked with complex cases for over a decade.