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Core care

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Gentle, slow and rhythmic manual techniques that work with the lymphatic system. The touch is precise, calm and far lighter than deep tissue massage.

Therapist performing gentle manual lymphatic drainage on a patient’s lower leg

Overview

About Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) uses gentle, specialized, slow, light and rhythmic manual techniques that follow the pathways of the lymphatic system. It is considerably lighter than deep tissue massage, and the movements are carefully sequenced.

MLD can be part of care for certain swelling or fluid management concerns, for example after surgery or injury. The approach depends on each person’s presentation, medical history and clinical needs, and where swelling has a medical cause we work alongside guidance from your physician.

Who this service may help

  • People with swelling after surgery or injury (with medical clearance where needed)
  • Those experiencing fluid retention or heaviness in the limbs
  • People recovering from certain cosmetic or orthopaedic procedures
  • Anyone seeking a very gentle, restorative treatment

Common reasons patients seek this care

  • Swelling after surgery
  • A feeling of heaviness or puffiness in arms or legs
  • Swelling following a sprain or strain
  • Wanting a calming treatment that is light on the body

Our approach

How Springdale approaches care

MLD is precise work. We take the time to understand your history and coordinate with your medical team when appropriate.

  1. Careful screeningSome conditions require medical clearance before MLD; we always check first.
  2. Gentle sequencingLight, rhythmic techniques applied in a specific order to support lymph flow.
  3. Self care guidanceSimple tips such as gentle movement and positioning between sessions.

Treatment options

  • Support after surgery

    Sequenced techniques that respect healing tissues and your surgeon’s guidance.

  • Advanced manual lymphatic drainage

    A more detailed protocol for people whose swelling needs a structured plan over several visits. Whether it suits you is decided after an assessment.

Your visit

What to expect

  1. Screening

    A health history review, including recent surgeries, medications and medical guidance.

  2. Comfort

    You rest comfortably while the therapist uses very light pressure.

  3. Treatment

    Slow, rhythmic techniques that many people find surprisingly relaxing.

  4. Aftercare

    Hydrate, move gently and follow any compression advice from your medical team.

Frequently asked questions

Is lymphatic drainage painful?

No. The pressure is very light, lighter than most people expect, and many find it deeply relaxing.

Can anyone receive MLD?

Not always. Some conditions, such as active infections, certain heart or kidney conditions, or an untreated blood clot, may require medical clearance or make MLD unsuitable. We screen carefully before treatment.

Do I need a referral?

A referral is not usually required to book, but following surgery we may ask for guidance from your surgical team.

Physiotherapy

Restore movement, ease discomfort and get back to doing what you love.

This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a guarantee of results. Your practitioner will discuss whether this service is appropriate for you after an assessment.

Ready to take the next step?

Book Manual Lymphatic Drainage at Springdale in Brampton, or call us and we’ll help you get started.

CallBook Appointment with Springdale through Jane App (opens in a new tab)
Clinic phone: (905) 463-9972