Massage Therapy > Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) - Vodder Method

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in immune function and tissue health, acting as your body’s natural defense and clean-up network.

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), using the Vodder Method, is a gentle and effective therapy that encourages healthy lymph flow, reduces swelling, and supports surgical recovery and overall well-being.

We offer MLD in a way that is safe, respectful, and clinically appropriate—always within the regulated scope of massage therapy.

Scope of Massage Therapist in Ontario is: Assessment and treatment of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints of the body which can include orthopaedic and neurological testing, soft tissue manipulation hydrotherapy, remedial exercise programs and client education programs.” (CMTO)

MLD For General Health

You don’t need to have a specific issue to benefit from Manual Lymph Drainage. MLD gently encourages healthy lymph flow, calms the nervous system, and relieves tension and discomfort through soothing, rhythmic touch.

MLD is beneficial for:

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Chronic pain such as fibromyalgia

  • Sinus congestion or chronic sinusitis

  • chronic inflammation and infection

  • Stress and anxiety

Note: Manual Lymph Drainage is not performed over areas with active infection. Please wait until the infection has fully resolved before booking your session.

MLD For Pre-Op Preparation And Post-Op Rehabilitation

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in tissue repair and recovery after surgery. MLD supports your body before and after surgical procedures by promoting circulation, reducing swelling, and enhancing healing outcomes.

Pre- & Post-op MLD is beneficial for:

  • reduced post-operative swelling

  • faster wound and scar healing

  • relief from Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS/cording)

  • pain management and comfort

  • general well-being and tissue health

MLD For Lymphedema And Chronic Swelling

Chronic swelling and lymphedema can feel overwhelming—but with consistent care, they can be managed effectively. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, clinically-supported therapy that helps maintain tissue health, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications.

Lymphedema and chronic swelling care is beneficial for:

  • long-term swelling management

  • improved joint mobility

  • pain relief and comfort

  • fibrosis prevention

  • reduced risk of infection and inflammation

  • enhanced overall well-being

Please Note:
We are not currently offering intensive treatments for Stage 2 or 3 lymphedema that require daily sessions or compression bandaging.
However, we do welcome clients at all stages of lymphedema who are in the preventive or maintenance phase of care.
To clarify:

  • Stage 2 lymphedema is characterized by swelling that does not resolve overnight and shows a noticeable size difference between affected and unaffected limbs.

  • Stage 3 lymphedema involves persistent swelling, often with fibrosis (hardening of the tissue).
    If you have an open or oozing wound in the affected area, please contact us before booking to ensure safe and appropriate care.

Lymphatic Health Education And Self-Care

Learning self-care is empowering and it leads to better, longer-lasting results from massage therapy.
Our education and self-care sessions are available both virtually (online) and in-person, tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Each session may include:

  • Intake and assessment

  • Goal setting for treatment and self-care

  • anatomy and physiology of the lymphathic system

  • Remedial exercise instruction and demonstration

  • Guided self-MLD techniques

  • Hydrotherapy instruction and application

  • Time for questions and personalized guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It’s never too early to start Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) as part of your pre-operative preparation. Receiving treatment closer to your surgery date can offer additional benefits by supporting smoother recovery and tissue healing.

    You may also consider booking an educational session to learn post-operative self-care strategies that can help you feel more confident and supported during your healing process.

  • Absolutely!

    Even if lymphedema hasn’t developed, receiving Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) after lymph node removal can be a proactive way to support your lymphatic system. Prevention and early care are important.

    You may also want to consider an education and self-care session to better understand how your lymphatic flow may be affected, and how to care for your body moving forward.

  • Yes, I am.

    I can authorize compression garments through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) for both new and existing patients with chronic lymphedema.

    There is no additional fee for authorizations completed during a scheduled treatment appointment, as long as you bring the required form with you.

    If you are an existing patient and only require documentation without a treatment session, the fee is $40 + HST per 15 minutes.

Integrative Approach With Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Many people choose to receive breast massage alongside Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments.
This holistic approach allows us to explore and support breast health from multiple perspectives, including:

  • Improve immunity

  • Pain management

  • Emotional patterns and trauma

  • Diet and lifestyle

  • Energetic stagnation or imbalances

  • Digestive issues etc..

Together, these therapies help support long-term wellness—not just in the physical body, but in your emotional and energetic health as well.