Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, or MLD, is a gentle yet powerful form of bodywork that is intended to stimulate and encourage the natural movement of lymph fluid back into the heart and subsequently into the bloodstream.

It is a technique based on light rhythmic movements that mimic the rhythm of the body's lymphatic system. Lymphatic massage should always be done by a certified lymphatic specialist, as when done wrong could be ineffective or dangerous. The light pressure used for MLD is absolutely necessary in order not to occlude or compress the superficial location of the lymph vessels and nodes. MLD can be beneficial in reducing swelling, supporting immune function, and promoting relaxation.

If you are feeling a bit sluggish, experiencing mild to severe swelling, experiencing localized or systemic excess inflammation, recovering from an injury or surgery, or are interested in optimizing your immune system, MLD could be the therapeutic option for you.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is also extremely effective in treating post-surgical swelling caused by DIEP flap reconstruction, mastectomy, liposuction, abdominoplasty, facelift, breast lift/reduction, and many, many other elective (and non-elective), reconstructive, and cosmetic surgeries. This treatment, in combination with scar tissue work, is also extremely effective in reducing the hardness or fibrosis that can be associated with liposuction.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage done at Lymphatic Specialists of Madison is performed by Courtney Rolnick, PT, DPT, CMLDT. Courtney was trained in the Vodder Technique through Klose Training with Nicola McGill. Courtney is highly trained with 9 years of experience in treating a variety of patients, including post-surgical patients, lipedema & lymphedema patients, and those with chronic health problems such as autoimmune disorders, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Lyme.

Indications

MLD is indicated for many…including healthy individuals wanting to boost their immune system or those with (but not limited to) the following conditions:

  • 1 Autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus and chronic fatigue syndrome)
  • 2 Neuropathy
  • 3 Migraines/Headaches
  • 4 Tinnitus
  • 5 Varicose veins
  • 6 Sinus congestion
  • 7 Lyme disease
  • 8 Pre/post-surgical procedures (such as DIEP flap reconstruction, mastectomy, facelift, knee replacement, hip replacement, liposuction surgery, tummy tuck)
  • 9 Lipedema
  • 10 Edema
  • 11 Lymphedema
  • 12 Post-mastectomy swelling
  • 13 Lumpectomy
  • 14 Gender-affirming surgery
  • 15 Post Concussion

Contraindications

Although MLD is beneficial for a number of conditions, it is not for everybody. Please note that we may need to contact your health care provider for further information on your condition or to proceed with treatment. Contraindications include:

  • 1 Congestive heart failure
  • 2 DVT
  • 3 Kidney disorders
  • 4 Acute infection/malignancies
  • 5 Arteriosclerosis
  • 6 Acute cold/flu
  • 7 Fever
  • 8 Some medications

Pricing

60 Minutes

$120-140

* depending on practitioner

Full body sequence including neck, chest, abdomen, legs, arms, face

Indications include:

Lymphedema, Lipedema, Chronic Health Issues, Post-Traumatic Injury Edema, post-surgical edema from DIEP flap reconstruction, mastectomy, lumpectomy, gender-affirming surgery, and any other surgeries that are cancer-related.

To schedule a Manual Lymphatic Drainage session:

* A couple of points to remember when booking your Manual Lymphatic Drainage session: A couple of points to remember when booking your Manual Lymphatic Drainage session: Make sure you schedule at a time that you are able to go home and rest for the remainder of the day, as most patients often feel very relaxed after a session. Also, it is not recommended that you come after a big meal. The deep abdominal work can get uncomfortable right after eating. Please also remember to stay hydrated before and after sessions.

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