Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Ringwood

Gentle support for your body’s natural flow.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, or MLD, is a gentle, specialised treatment using light, rhythmic movements to encourage the natural movement of lymphatic fluid around the body.

Unlike traditional or deep tissue massage, MLD isn't about working deeply into the muscles. The pressure is intentionally very light, with slow, repetitive movements following the natural pathways of the lymphatic system.

It can be a lovely treatment if you're experiencing feelings of puffiness, fluid retention, swelling or heaviness, or if you're simply looking for something gentle and deeply relaxing.

At BodyFit Chiropractic, your treatment is tailored to you, with your comfort and wellbeing at the heart of every session.

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What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

The lymphatic system plays an important role in maintaining the body's natural fluid balance, moving lymphatic fluid through a network of vessels and lymph nodes.

Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart acting as a pump, the lymphatic system relies on factors such as movement, breathing and muscle activity to help lymph move around the body.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses very gentle, rhythmic and precisely directed movements to support this natural process.

The technique used by Yolandi is based on the Dr. Vodder method of Manual Lymph Drainage, developed by Emil and Estrid Vodder in the 1930s.

Because MLD works with the superficial lymphatic system rather than deeply into the muscles, the treatment may feel surprisingly light if you're used to traditional massage. This gentle pressure is intentional and an important part of the technique.

What happens during Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

People choose MLD for many different reasons. Some are looking for support with feelings of swelling or heaviness, while others simply enjoy the gentle and calming nature of the treatment.

Swelling, Puffiness and Fluid Retention

If you're experiencing mild swelling, puffiness, fluid retention or a general feeling of heaviness, MLD may help support the body's natural movement of lymphatic fluid.

Your treatment can be tailored to particular areas of the body depending on what you're experiencing and what is appropriate for you.

Post-surgery Recovery Support

MLD may also be used as part of recovery following certain surgical or cosmetic procedures, where appropriate.

Every procedure and recovery is different, so we'll ask about your surgery and stage of recovery before treatment. In some circumstances, we may ask you to obtain approval from your surgeon, GP or another healthcare professional before booking.

Abdominal Bloating and Feelings of Heaviness

Gentle lymphatic techniques can also be used around the abdominal area where appropriate.

If you're experiencing feelings of bloating, fluid retention or heaviness, Yolandi can discuss whether including the abdomen within your treatment may be suitable for you.

Relaxation and Wellbeing

You don't need to be experiencing swelling or fluid retention to enjoy MLD.

The slow, repetitive rhythm and gentle nature of the treatment can be wonderfully calming, making it a lovely option if you're looking for some dedicated time to slow down, switch off and relax.

What happens during Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Before your first treatment, we'll talk through what has brought you to MLD, any areas you'd particularly like to focus on and your relevant health or medical history.

During your treatment, Yolandi uses light, flowing and rhythmic movements following the natural direction of lymphatic flow.

Depending on your individual needs, treatment may include areas such as the:

Abdomen
Legs
Arms
Neck and upper body
Chest, where appropriate and with your consent.

Because the lymphatic system extends throughout the body, your therapist may work on areas other than the place where you're noticing puffiness or heaviness.

Some areas treated during MLD can feel more personal than with other forms of massage. Everything will be explained beforehand, you'll be appropriately covered using professional draping, and your privacy, consent and comfort will always come first.

How can Manual Lymphatic Drainage help?

Depending on why you've chosen treatment, MLD may help to:

Support the natural movement of lymphatic fluid
Support the body's natural fluid balance
Ease feelings of puffiness and fluid retention
Reduce feelings of heaviness
Provide gentle support during appropriate post-surgical recovery
Promote relaxation and a sense of calm
Support your overall sense of wellbeing

Some people choose MLD as a one-off treatment, while others prefer a course of sessions depending on their individual needs and goals. Yolandi can discuss this with you at your appointment.

Your treatment will always be shaped around your individual needs and what is appropriate for you.

Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage right for everyone?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very gentle treatment, but there may be some circumstances where treatment isn't appropriate.

Before your first appointment, we'll ask you to complete a health questionnaire and tell us about any relevant medical conditions, recent procedures or surgery. In some cases, we may ask you to speak to your GP, surgeon or another healthcare professional before treatment.

If you're unsure whether MLD is suitable for you, please get in touch before booking and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.

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Lymphatic Drainage Massage