Lymphatic Massage
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle, hands-on therapy designed to support the movement of lymph fluid through the body. It is commonly used to help reduce swelling, manage fluid retention, and support recovery following surgery or injury.
At Flow Lymphatic Health Clinic, manual lymphatic drainage is provided by Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) and an Occupational Therapist, and is typically covered under extended health benefits. All of our Registered Massage Therapists are Vodder-trained in lymphatic massage.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage the Same as Lymphatic Massage?
Yes, for clients, the experience is the same — a slow, calming, non-invasive treatment focused on supporting lymph flow to help the body clear out toxins such as dead cells, cancer cells, etc.
- Lymphatic massage is the everyday term people use when looking for relief from swelling, heaviness, or fluid retention.
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) refers to the clinical technique – a precise sequence of gentle movements provided by Registered Health Care Professionals and designed to guide lymph fluid toward lymph nodes and reduce pressure in the tissues.
At Flow, manual lymphatic drainage / lymphatic massage are provided by Registered Massage Therapists or Occupational Therapist. Both are typically covered by insurance.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Painful?
No. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very gentle massage, performed with the fingers and palms. This technique works at the skin level rather than deep muscle tissue. Most clients find sessions calming and relaxing.
Who Can Receive a Lymphatic Massage?
People who benefit most from manual lymphatic drainage include those experiencing:
- Edema or fluid retention
- Lymphedema
- Post-surgical swelling
- Traumatic injuries
- Pre- or post-operative care
- Headaches
- Pregnancy-related swelling
- Skin conditions
- Joint discomfort (arthralgias)
- Sleep disturbances related to swelling or discomfort
If you are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for you, a therapist can discuss your health history and goals before treatment.
When Should I Contact the Clinic Before Booking?
Because manual lymphatic drainage can increase blood and fluid movement in the body, it may not be appropriate for everyone.
Please contact the clinic before booking if you have:
- A history of heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Untreated deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- An active bacterial infection
- Any diagnosed organ dysfunction that may be affected by fluid-shifting therapies
If you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, manual lymphatic drainage is often still possible, but treatment timing and technique may need to be modified for safety.
What Does a Treatment Session Look Like?
Manual lymphatic drainage is performed directly on the skin without oil. The treatment uses slow, rhythmic movements rather than deep pressure.
Sessions are commonly 60 minutes, though shorter or longer appointments may be recommended depending on the area being treated and your specific needs. Many clients report feeling lighter in their body, deeply relaxed, and sleeping especially well after treatment.
MLD can be provided by either a Registered Massage Therapist or an Occupational Therapist, giving you access to one or two potential streams of insurance coverage depending on your plan.
Some therapists are able to bill insurance directly. Massage Therapy and Occupational Therapy services are also eligible for tax claims.
FAQs
The lymphatic system doesn’t literally clog like a pipe, but it can become sluggish or overwhelmed. Common signs can include persistent swelling (especially in the arms, legs, abdomen, or face), a feeling of heaviness or tightness, changes in the skin and deeper tissues, frequent infections, fatigue, brain fog, or slow healing. These symptoms can have many causes, so they don’t automatically mean a lymphatic issue, but they’re good reasons to seek an assessment from a qualified health professional.
Often yes. Manual Lymph Drainage can be very gentle and supportive during cancer treatment, particularly for swelling, discomfort, or post-surgical recovery. However, timing, technique, and areas treated may need to be modified to ensure safety.
It depends on your goals and condition. Some people benefit from occasional sessions for general wellness or post-travel swelling, while others—such as those managing lymphedema, post-surgical recovery, or chronic inflammation—may benefit from more regular treatments (for example, daily, weekly, or in short series). Your therapist can help create a plan tailored to your body and health needs, and adjust frequency as things improve.
Yes we have RMTs and one occupational therapist that can provide this massage.
Our address is 805 W Broadway Unit 1803, which is the Willow Medical Building of Fairview Slopes. There is parking in the building underground. Access is located just around the corner on Willow Street or we can be reached by Public Transportation. There are bike racks out front.
There are many cafes and restaurants in the neighbourhood to enjoy before or after treatments.
Manual lymphatic drainage may be complemented by properly fitted compression garments, which help support lymphatic flow between sessions. Garment fitting is offered as a separate service when appropriate.
We at Flow recognise that issues that negatively impact the lymphatic system often affect more than the physical body. For those looking for a holistic treatment we offer counselling services for individuals as well as couple / group therapy sessions.