MBB Stock Photos 2018-04-05 (70 of 860).

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic technique used to promote drainage within the lymphatic system. Developed by Physicians Emil and Estrid Vodder, MLD can help reduce swelling, inflammation, chronic pain, and more.

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*Please note: As of April 2021, I am not accepting cosmetic surgery clients. For post-surgical lymphatic drainage I recommend Chase Quattlebaum or Mimi Percell.

45 minute: $65

60 minute: $85

Lymphatic Drainage FAQ

What is the lymphatic system?

​Great question! In a nutshell, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels and tissues that help detect and fight disease, and that transports fluid and helps your body eliminate waste. Your bloodstream "leaks" fluid containing plasma, electrolytes, proteins, etc. Your lymphatic system collects this fluid and transports much of it back to the bloodstream. It transports the rest to the organs of elimination (kidneys and liver). This process maintains an important fluid balance in your body that keeps you alive. It keeps you from swelling up like a balloon. As fluid (lymph) moves through the lymphatic system, it passes through lymph nodes, which are like the body's "security system." They detect foreign pathogens, or germs that aren't supposed to be there. When pathogens are detected, your body's immune response kicks in, and immune cells are dispatched to fight the pathogen. Your lymphatic tissues (particularly the lymph nodes, thymus, and spleen) house special immune cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are types of white blood cells that fight disease. When your lymph nodes swell up during an infection, like a cold or flu, it's because lymphocytes and other immune cells are fighting the source of infection, and it means your immune system is functioning as it was designed to function.



What conditions can benefit from MLD?

Evidence suggests that receiving regular MLD may provide relief from the following conditions or symptoms: ​ -Chronic pain -Anxiety -Post-surgical edema (swelling) -Edema resulting from injuries or sprains -Venous insufficiency -General fluid retention -Lymphedema -Headaches and migraines -Rheumatoid Arthritis -Fibromyalgia -Lupus -Lyme disease -Psoriasis -Eczema -SIBO -Chronic Fatigue Syndrome -Digestive issues -Sinusitis, and more.



What does MLD feel like?

MLD is very light and gentle. In most areas, five grams of pressure or less is used. This is because your lymphatic capillaries are directly beneath the skin, and are very delicate. Creating a "skin stretch" is one of the most effective ways to affect the lymph capillaries. MLD is also rhythmic and repetitive, mimicking the pumping rhythm of the system. People often fall asleep and snore when receiving MLD :-) I've had clients describe it as "soothing" and "magical." ​ In areas where the fluid is fibrotic, or hardened and lumpy, more than five grams of pressure is used. From my experience, this particularly tends to be true of lymphedema in the legs, and abdominal post-surgical swelling. Slightly deeper, scooping pressure is often used in these areas. At times, this might cause some discomfort, but should never be unbearable.



Why don't you offer 75 or 90 minute sessions for MLD?

MLD is very gentle, but it is a powerful modality. Even though it is calming and relaxing, receiving MLD is an active process for the body, because we are engaging your tissues and organs to move large volumes of fluid. Too much MLD at once could tire out your body, potentially leaving you feeling sluggish, fatigued, or nauseous.



I have had lymph nodes removed. Is it safe for me to receive MLD?

Yes. I am specifically trained and certified to work with individuals who've had lymph nodes removed or radiated. I reroute the fluid using alternate pathways to protect the areas of your lymph system that are compromised. If you've had lymph nodes removed, it is always best to receive MLD from a Certified MLD Therapist (CMLDT), or a Certified Lymphatic Therapist (CLT).



How can MLD help someone with autoimmunity?

MLD has a soothing effect on the nervous system and the tissues. I see a number of clients with different autoimmune conditions in order to relieve inflammation, reduce swelling that may be part of treatment (i.e. medication or steroid infusions), and to lower the frequency and severity of flare ups. Clients often state that MLD noticeably reduces their pain, and can reduce other symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and headaches. One thing to note-- it is best not to receive MLD during a flare, as this is sometimes too much for the body and can aggravate symptoms. MLD is best used as a tool for managing everyday symptoms, and preventing future flares or reducing severity of them.



Can MLD help me detox my body?

Detox is a bit of a buzzword right now. It is true that we do inhale and ingest pollutants in our day to day lives. In general, if you're an overall healthy person, your liver and kidneys do a great job detoxing you all on your own. Sometimes, though, the liver gets backed up and the lymphatic system has a greater volume of fluid than it can efficiently move. This may be true if you're feeling fatigued, bloated, inflamed, have unexplained skin issues, and other conditions that aren't responding to traditional medication. Many clients report feeling lighter and more energetic after a session. In rare cases, the body may truly be undergoing a detoxification process (one possible example is mercury poisoning that may occur through dental malpractice or mercury consumption). Lymphatic drainage can support you in this process, but be sure to get clearance from your doctor in such cases.



Do you offer bandaging or compression fitting for clients with lymphedema?

No, I don't offer this. It is recommended for patients to visit a lymphedema clinic, or a physical therapist or occupational therapist for acute care, which includes bandaging and fitting for compression sleeves or garments. These practitioners are typically able to bill insurance as well.



Do you accept insurance?

No, I do not bill insurance. I am able to accept HSA/FSA payments, but every HSA/FSA is different, and I can't guarantee that yours will cover massage therapy. You will need to check with your HSA/FSA provider to confirm.



Where did you do your training? Are you certified?

Yes, I am a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist (CMLDT). I received my training and certification through Klose Institute. Following training, I spent a year apprenticing under a lymphatic therapist in Austin, TX.