Lymphatic Massage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Lymph flow can slow due to many factors. Diet, lifestyle, high stress levels, physical trauma/injury are a few things that may affect your lymphatic system. Manual lymphatic drainage stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid and drains the tissue of excess water and protein. The movement of this fluid assists the body in maintaining its intrinsic ability to move lymph.

These treatments can be beneficial for an extensive list of symptoms/conditions. A few examples are: pre and post operative care, autoimmune conditions, skin conditions, acute injuries, swelling during pregnancy, insomnia, headaches, congestion, digestive issues and lymphedema. 

The treatment is very gentle and focused to the skin and areas high in lymph nodes. MLD can be used for maintenance as well as done intensively, it’s best to consult with a lymphatic therapist that will explain and put forward the treatment plan that is best for you. 

Complete Decongestive Therapy

Lymphedema is a common disease amongst adults and children due to a disruption or malformation to the lymphatic channels or the loss of lymph nodes. It is very commonly seen in breast cancer survivors, as well as an after effect from surgeries in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Injuries, radiation and cosmetic surgeries are other common causes. Lymphatic insufficiency may not be obvious immediately but these causes place individuals at life long risk of the onset of lymphedema. Seeing a certified lymphatic therapist if you have been diagnosed is suggested and reduces the side effects of lymphedema, allowing for more comfort in the body and an ability to manage this condition. 

Treatments for lymphedema vary depending on each case. It is common to receive 4-5 treatments a week, for a duration of 1-8 weeks depending on the severity. There is often a measurable reduction in fluid in 2-4 weeks. These treatments are referred to as complete decongestive therapy and involve manual lymphatic drainage as well as compression bandaging. Bandages are provided in clinic after your first appointment with information on how to get permanent compression garments. Once permanent compression is received the maintenance phase begins, where clients will come in once every 4-6 weeks only for lymph drainage massage. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, noticed an area of your body with swelling, experience a feeling of heaviness, feel restricted in range of motion, or are just curious about these treatments please feel free to reach out to Alexa.

Alexa Daumler RMT, offers manual lymphatic drainage as well as lymphedema management appointments.