Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) — Therapeutic Lymphatic Massage in Ottawa
Gentle, clinical-grade lymphatic care to reduce swelling, support healing & restore balance
If you’re experiencing persistent swelling, fluid retention, post-surgical edema, or complications from injury, our manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) services at Triada Health Ottawa are designed to help.
MLD is a gentle, specialized form of massage that targets the lymphatic system — working to support fluid movement, reduce inflammation, and encourage healthy circulation.
Our Registered Massage Therapist, Carly Smith, is trained to provide safe, evidence-based, therapeutic lymphatic care that meets medical and recovery needs.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in clearing excess fluid, toxins, and waste from your tissues. Sometimes — after surgery, injury, chronic inflammation, or lymphatic disruption — the system needs support to restore balance.
In a typical MLD session:
- Your therapist uses very light, rhythmic strokes and pumps, rather than deep pressure.
- The therapist begins with “unaffected” areas (neck, armpits, groin) to stimulate lymph flow, then gently works through the affected region.
- The goal is to move stagnant lymph fluid toward functioning lymph nodes for reabsorption — reducing swelling and promoting healing.
This technique differs significantly from traditional deep-tissue or therapeutic massage — it’s gentle, soothing, and medically oriented.
Who Can Benefit From Therapeutic Lymphatic Drainage?
MLD may help if you are experiencing:
- Post-surgical swelling or edema (orthopedic, cosmetic, abdominal, etc.)
- Post-injury fluid retention or slow recovery
- Chronic swelling or lymphedema
- Swelling due to inflammation, poor circulation, or venous insufficiency
- Post-radiation therapy support (with physician approval)
- Fluid retention related to hormonal changes, water retention, or fluid imbalance
We also support clients looking for safe, therapeutic lymphatic care as part of broader recovery — not just cosmetic drainage.
💡 What to Expect During an MLD Session
- Consultation & assessment: We review your health history, swelling pattern, and healing status.
- Gentle, rhythmic lymphatic techniques: Light skin-stretching strokes, pumps, and circulatory movements aimed at promoting lymph flow.
- Focused care on affected areas: Working carefully on the swollen or affected region, while ensuring safe drainage.
- Supportive care for compensating tissues: Muscles around the area may tighten — we address them to prevent compensatory tension.
- Home-care advice: Hydration, gentle movement or breathing exercises may be suggested to support continued lymph flow between sessions. Lower body Guide to Home Care
Because this therapy works with fluid flow (not deep pressure), many clients feel light, relaxed, and noticeable reduction of swelling after just a few sessions.
MLD vs Other Lymphatic / Recovery Services at Triada
| Service | Primary Purpose | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) | Therapeutic lymphatic care, swelling reduction, post-surgical/ injury recovery | Post-surgery edema, chronic swelling, fluid retention, medical recovery |
| General Lymphatic Drainage Massage (wellness / cosmetic Brazilian BLD) | Fluid circulation, overall wellness, cosmetic & general swelling reduction | Postpartum bloating, wellness maintenance, cosmetic fluid retention, cosmetic contouring |
| Post-Surgical / Post-Op Massage | Scar tissue mobilization, swelling reduction, post-op recovery care | Post-surgery patients needing integrated recovery support |
This page focuses on the therapeutic MLD approach. If you are looking for wellness-oriented lymphatic massage, check our “Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Ottawa” service page.
🛑 When MLD Is Not Recommended (Contraindications)
Manual lymphatic drainage may not be safe if you have:
- Active infection, fever, or skin lesions
- Known or suspected blood clots (DVT)
- Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions or heart failure
- Acute, untreated cancer or ongoing radiation without clearance
- Severe untreated kidney issues or fluid overload
If in doubt, we always recommend medical clearance before scheduling MLD.
Why Choose Triada Health for MLD in Ottawa
- Our RMT, Carly Smith, is trained in clinically recognized lymphatic drainage techniques with a Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) certification from the International Lymphedema and Wound Training Institute.
- Gentle, patient-centred approach — we work at your pace
- Private, calm clinic environment
- Integration with physiotherapy, chiropractic, and other allied services for holistic healing
- Direct billing available for eligible private insurance/benefits plans
We understand that recovery can feel vulnerable — our goal is to support you with safe, effective, and compassionate care.
📅 Book Therapeutic Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in Ottawa
If you’re dealing with swelling, post-surgical fluid retention, chronic edema, or other lymphatic issues — or need gentle, restorative care — book your MLD session today.
Let your body heal, feel lighter, and begin to move with more ease.