Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Edmonton
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is unlike the rest of what we do. The pressure is very light and the rhythm is slow and repetitive, working with the lymphatic system just beneath the skin rather than the muscle underneath. After surgery, injury or illness, that system can fall behind and swelling lingers. MLD uses gentle, directional strokes to support the body’s own drainage.
What Does a Session Feel Like?
Light and Rhythmic
Your therapist uses light, rhythmic strokes, often starting at the neck and trunk to clear the main drainage pathways before moving to the swollen area. There’s no deep pressure and no muscle work.
Calm and Comfortable
Most people find MLD deeply relaxing. You lie comfortably on the treatment table, and the pace stays slow and steady throughout the session.
Afterwards
Because the technique stimulates the body’s own drainage, you may need the bathroom shortly after your session. Drinking water afterwards is a good idea.
Who Comes for Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
People book MLD in Edmonton most often for:
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Swelling after surgery. This includes orthopaedic procedures such as knee or shoulder surgery, and cosmetic procedures such as liposuction or tummy tucks, where surgeons often recommend lymphatic massage during recovery.
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Swelling after injury, such as a sprained ankle once the acute stage has passed.
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Fluid retention and heaviness in the legs or ankles, particularly after long periods of sitting or travel.
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Recovery when heavier bodywork isn’t appropriate, such as during illness, fatigue, or a sensitive stage of healing.
Lymphatic Drainage After Surgery
If you’re post-operative:
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Check with your surgeon on timing before you book. Many surgeons have a preferred window for starting lymphatic massage.
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Tell us what procedure you had and when, along with any instructions from your surgical team. Sessions are planned around them.
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Bring or wear your compression garment if you’ve been given one, since you’ll usually put it back on after treatment.
When MLD Isn’t Appropriate
MLD isn’t suitable for everyone. Please speak with your doctor before booking if you have:
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a suspected or known blood clot (DVT)
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an active infection or fever
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heart failure or significant kidney problems
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active cancer that hasn’t been discussed with your oncology team
If you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, let us know when you book. Ongoing lymphedema management is often handled by therapists with specialised certification, and we’ll tell you honestly whether we’re the right fit.
Who Provides MLD
Manual lymphatic drainage at Holistic Mobility is currently provided by Tia-Christina Martineau. Choose Tia when you book online.
Is MLD Covered by Insurance?
Manual lymphatic drainage performed by a registered massage therapist is generally billed as massage therapy, so many extended health plans that include massage therapy will cover it. Coverage depends on your individual plan. See our direct billing guide for the insurers we work with and what to bring.
Common Questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you’re recovering from. After surgery, a short series of sessions over the first few weeks is common, often guided by your surgeon. For general fluid retention, one or two sessions may be enough to see how your body responds.
Does lymphatic drainage hurt?
No. The pressure is very light, much lighter than a standard massage. If anything feels uncomfortable, especially near a surgical site, tell your therapist and they’ll adjust.
How soon after surgery can I book?
That’s a question for your surgeon, since timing varies with the procedure. Once they’ve cleared you, we’re happy to plan your sessions around their guidance.
Can MLD be combined with a regular massage?
Sometimes. If you’re managing both swelling and muscular tension, your therapist can talk through whether a combined session suits you. After surgery, MLD on its own is usually the place to start.
Book online at our South Edmonton clinic inside Evolve Strength South Commons.