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 the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back towards the heart. It is a technique based on gentle, rhythmic and constant movements that mimic the rhythm of the body’s lymphatic system.

Although lymphatic massage may not be as common as other types of massage modalities, the benefits that it provides are numerous. If you are feeling a bit sluggish, experiencing mild to moderate swelling, experiencing localized or  systemic inflammation, recovering from an injury or surgery, or 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 liposuction, abdominoplasty, facelift, breast lift/reduction, and many, many other elective (and non-elective), reconstructive, and cosmetic surgeries. This treatment is also extremely effective in reducing the lumps and bumps that can be associated with liposuction.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage done at the Madison Lymphatics and Bodywork is performed by Carmela Wiese, LMT, CMLDT and Courtney Rolnick, PT, DPT, CMLDT. Both Carmela and Courtney were trained in the Vodder Technique through Klose Training with Nicola McGill. Both Carmela and Courtney are highly trained and have a combined 12 years of experience in treating a wide patient population including post-surgical patients, lipedema & lymphedema patients, and those with chronic health problems such as autoimmune disorders. 

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:
  • Autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus and chronic fatigue syndrome)
  • Neuropathy
  • Migraines/Headaches
  • Tinnitus
  • Varicose veins
  • Sinus congestion
  • Lyme disease
  • Pre/post-surgical procedures (such as facelift, knee replacement, hip replacement, liposuction surgery, tummy tuck)
  • Metabolic waste removal after CoolSculpting
  • Edema
  • Lymphedema
  • Post-mastectomy swelling
  • Lumpectomy

Contraindications

Although MLD is beneficial to 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. Contraindications include:
  • Congestive heart failure
  • DVT
  • Kidney disorders
  • Acute inflammation or infection/malignancies
  • Arteriosclerosis
  • Acute cold/flu
  • Fever
  • Some medications

Pricing

The lymphatic system is your body's unsung hero.

30 Minutes

Neck and Face only.

Indications include:
Sinus/Tension Headache/Migraine, Puffy Eyes.

60 Minutes

Neck, Abdominal and Upper or Lower Extremity.

Indications Include:
Lymphedema, Chronic Health Issues, Post Traumatic Injury Edema.

90 Minutes

Full Body Sequence.

Indications Include:
A longer session that allows the practitioner to take extra time to address areas that need additional attention with more detail. 

To schedule a 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!**