What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?

  • MLD is a gentle yet powerful form of bodywork that is designed to increase the movement of lymph & interstitial fluid towards the venous system.  The technique is light, rhythmic, follows very precise sequences of movement & is done without the use of lotion or oils.  Due to the light pressure used, MLD decreases the sympathetic mode & promotes a parasympathetic response along with having an analgesic effect. 
  • MLD is a technique that requires an extensive level of study beyond what is covered in traditional massage therapy programs.  Deven Reid was trained in the Vodder Technique by Erin Maranjian with Klose Training to become a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist (CMLDT) in Fall 2017. 

Why MLD & Who Can Benefit?

  • Our lymphatic system can become blocked or compromised due to a variety of conditions which can result in fluid retention/swelling.  MLD will assist in moving excess fluid toward the nearest group of lymph nodes to be filtered & released.
  • MLD can be beneficial for a variety of conditions including post-traumatic swelling (sprains, whiplash, hematomas), post-surgical swelling (knee replacement, mastectomies, facial surgery), autoimmune disorders (fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), neurological disorders (complex regional pain syndrome), systemic disorders (Parkinson's disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis), migraine & sinus headaches & tinnitus.

Contraindications & Limits to Working with Clients with Lymphedema

 

*MLD is not indicated for all clients & I may need to contact your health care provider for further information on your condition*

 

Some absolute contraindications are:

  • Acute Infection
  • Acute Cellulitis
  • Fever
  • Untreated Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
  • Acute Untreated Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
  • Cardiac Arrhythmia (no MLD on neck)
  • Hyperthyroidism (no MLD on neck)
  • Crohn's Disease (no MLD on abdomen)
  • Diverticulitis & Diverticulosis (no MLD on abdomen)
  • Hormone Therapy (no MLD on trunk)
  • Radiation Fibrosis (no MLD on trunk)

The conditions under which MLD certified therapists can work with clients with lymphedema or who are at risk of developing lymphedema are limited.  MLD can be very useful to manage mild lymphedema or latent stage lymphedema.  More advanced lymphedema cases should seek treatment from a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) who is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) certified.  I am not a CLT and do not offer CDT but may be able to refer you to a practitioner who does.

 

MLD Pricing

  • 15 Minute Neck & Face (add on only) $25
  • 30 Minute Targeted $55

 *I do not accept insurance but am happy to provide receipts of payment for your documentation*