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Manual Lymphatic Drainage

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?

Lymphatic drainage treatment is a specialized therapeutic technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, encouraging the natural flow of lymph fluid throughout the body. This gentle yet effective treatment helps detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and enhance circulation. By using rhythmic, precise movements, lymphatic drainage supports the body’s natural detoxification pathways, helping to remove metabolic waste, excess fluid, and toxins while improving immune function.

We offer Dr. Vodder-style Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), a highly specialized technique that utilizes light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the superficial lymphatic system. This method has been clinically studied for its effectiveness in improving fluid balance, reducing lymphedema, and supporting pre and post-surgical recovery.

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Benefits of Dr. Vodder-Style Lymphatic Drainage

  • Supports Circulatory & Lymphatic Health – Encourages healthy blood and lymphatic flow, reducing congestion and stagnation.
  • Relieves Tension & Stress – Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation and nervous system balance.
  • Improves Skin & Tissue Health – Enhances complexion, reduces puffiness, and supports tissue regeneration.
  • Aids Digestion & Gut Health – Encourages lymph flow in the abdominal region, supporting detoxification and reducing bloating.
  • Supports Detoxification & Immune Function – Helps flush toxins, metabolic waste, and excess fluid while strengthening immune defenses.
  • Enhances the Body’s Detoxification Pathways – Assists the liver, kidneys, and digestive system in processing and eliminating toxins.
  • Reduces Swelling & Water Retention – Beneficial for pre and post-surgical healing, lymphedema, and inflammation.

Video property of Md Abuzar.

Conditions MLD Can Address

MLD is effective for a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, with some supported by extensive research and others based on clinical observations:

  • Lymphedema (Primary & Secondary)
  • Sports Injuries
  • Pre & Post-Surgery Recovery (cancer, orthopedic, cosmetic, dental)
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) / Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
  • Breast Health Support
  • Pregnancy-Related Swelling
  • Neurological Conditions (including concussions)
  • Orthopedic Injuries (fractures, sprains)
  • Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
  • Burn Recovery
  • Edema, Swelling & Inflammation
  • Skin Conditions (scars, stretch marks, acne, rosacea)
  • Venous Insufficiency
  • Arthritis & Joint Pain
  • Diabetes-Related Edema

Benefits of MLD

MLD offers a variety of health and wellness benefits, including:

  • Improved lymphatic circulation and immune system function
  • Pain relief through reduced inflammation and removal of pain-inducing chemicals
  • Effective management and prevention of lymphedema (often post-cancer treatment)
  • Enhanced recovery from surgery and injuries
  • Detoxification and waste removal from the body
  • Reduced swelling, fluid retention, and inflammation
  • Calming effects on the nervous system
  • Maintenance of healthy connective tissues

Important Considerations Prior to Booking

While lymphatic drainage is a gentle and non-invasive therapy, it is not suitable for everyone. If you have any of the following conditions, please contact us before booking to ensure this treatment is safe and appropriate for you:

Your well-being is our top priority. If any of the conditions below apply to you, please get in touch with us before scheduling your appointment.

  • Acute infections (such as colds, flu, or any bacterial/viral infection)
  • Cardiovascular disease (including heart failure, thrombosis, or uncontrolled hypertension)
  • Kidney disease (as lymphatic drainage increases fluid movement, it may place additional strain on the kidneys)

When to Consider MLD Treatments

Pre- and Post-Surgery Recommendations

MLD is especially beneficial before and after surgery (orthopedic, cosmetic, or other).

Pre-Surgery:
  • 2–3 sessions (60–90 minutes) close to the surgical date
Post-Surgery:
  • Week 1: 2–3 sessions (60–90 minutes each)
  • Week 2: 2 sessions (60–90 minutes each)
  • Weeks 3 & 4: 1–2 sessions (60 minutes each)

Other Applications Include:

  • Liposuction and body contouring recovery
  • Pre- and postnatal care
  • Chronic conditions (sinusitis, venous insufficiency, constipation)
  • Stress management
  • Fibromyalgia and arthralgia relief
  • Immune system enhancement and detoxification

Our Experts

RMT

Candace Racanelli

My interest in becoming a RMT stemmed from personally benefiting from massage therapy. Massage helped me as I trained for a half marathon and overcame an MVA injury. Such experiences motivated me to learn how I could help others prevent and recover from injuries and meet their personal goals.

I believe that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself. My goal is to determine the underlying issue through clinical assessment and to make corrections through clinical treatment and home care such as strengthening exercise, stretch and hydrotherapy.

I work with each patient, creating an individualized treatment plan, and view the recovery process as a team effort. I believe effective massage therapy can provide lasting change for a healthier you. I work with your individual needs and goals so you can be at your best!

Candace is a graduate of Vancouver College of Massage Therapy’s 3000 hour Registered Massage Therapy program. She is also certified in Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), Lymph taping and Graston’s technique.

Schedule with Candace

Rates

30 Minute Session

$95.00

45 Minute Session

$120.00

60 Minute Session

$140.00

Pre & Post Op, 75 Minute Session

$170.00

Pre & Post Op, 90 Minute Session

$200.00

Pre & Post Op, 10 Minute Consultation

No Charge