Gentle, clinical lymphatic therapy to reduce swelling and support recovery
If you’re experiencing persistent swelling, fluid retention, or lymphatic congestion, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) offers a gentle, clinically focused approach to support fluid movement and recovery.
MLD targets the lymphatic system — working to support fluid movement, reduce inflammation, and encourage healthy circulation.
👉 MLD uses light, precise techniques — not deep pressure — making it suitable for sensitive or inflamed tissues.
Our Registered Massage Therapists provide safe, evidence-based, therapeutic lymphatic care that meets medical and recovery needs.
Not Sure Which Type of Lymphatic Drainage You Need?
If you’re unsure whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage, post-surgical care, or Brazilian lymphatic drainage is right for you, visit our guide to choosing the right lymphatic treatment.
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 is commonly used for:
- Chronic swelling
- Lipedema
- Fluid retention
- General lymphatic support
- Mild post-injury swelling
👉 If you are recovering from surgery, post-surgical lymphatic drainage may be more appropriate in early stages.
💡 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.
Because this therapy works with fluid flow (not deep pressure), many clients feel light, relaxed, and a noticeable reduction of swelling after just a few sessions.
🛑 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
- Carly Smith, RMT 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 acupuncture.
- 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.
Related Services:
📅 Book Therapeutic Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in Ottawa
If you’re dealing with swelling, fluid retention, chronic edema, or need gentle lymphatic support, manual lymphatic drainage offers a safe and effective treatment option.
🔗 Book Your Appointment Online
📞 613-695-1213
📧 admin@triadahealthottawa.com
📍 Learn more about our team and location on our Our Clinic page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle technique that supports lymphatic flow, reduces swelling, and promotes healing.
It may be helpful for swelling, fluid retention, lipedema, and post-surgical recovery.
It is often covered when performed by a registered massage therapist, depending on your plan.
Frequency depends on your goals, but a short series of treatments is often recommended.