How Lymphatic Drainage Massage Can Boost Your Wellness Journey

Jan. 12

What is Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymph drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique specifically focused on the lymphatic system to promote the movement of excess lymphatic fluid in tissues with the goal being to reduce localized and peripheral swelling.

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, organs and glands beneath the skin that are responsible for fighting off infections while maintaining normal fluid balance throughout the body. One major role of this system is to drain extra lymphatic fluid from tissues back into the blood in order to remove excess fluid and waste products.

If the lymphatic system is compromised, a common sign is excessive swelling in the arms and legs as the system becomes congested and excess fluid accumulates.

How does massage help?

Manual Lymph drainage involves gentle pressure and stretching of the skin and underlying tissues to help move fluid away from swollen areas toward the direction of lymph flow and drainage.

Our registered massage therapist will first begin in the areas without swelling combined with diaphragmatic breathing to help increase lymphatic flow. They will then treat swollen areas using various techniques and hand motions depending on the part of the body that is being treated. Treatment will end with diaphragmatic breathing and any recommendations to help further your recovery.

Who is this treatment for?

Manual Lymphatic drainage may be beneficial for patients who have had or undergone:

surgery, such as cancer surgery involving the removal of lymph nodes
lymphedema
cancer treatment
fibromyalgia
post-concussion symptoms
injuries
chronic pain
sinus congestion

Are there any added costs?

No, there are no extra costs for Manual Lymph drainage in your massage treatment. If you feel that you can benefit from a lymphatic drainage massage, our RMT Ingrid Stenersen is certified in the Dr Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage and is here to help you determine the right treatment for you.

Ready to book your massage at Victoria BC? Feel free to make an appointment online, or call us at 250-363-9707. We look forward to supporting you in your recovery!

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Dana Tostenson, MPT

With a passion for people and health, physiotherapy has been a natural fit for Dana.

He enjoys working with clients through a holistic approach; incorporating manual therapy, tailored exercise prescription, and evidence informed education to help his patients overcome their pain, improve performance, and enhance their overall health.

Victoria, BC physiotherapist Dana is excited to help people return to the activities they love, approaching any issue, big or small, with enthusiasm and compassion. As a former varsity athlete and now a recreational competitor, his passion for sports and performance optimization makes him a great fit for injured athletes or weekend warriors hoping to return to and excel in the game.

Dana is a graduate of the University of British Columbia (Masters of Physical Therapy), the University of Alberta (Bachelor of Science in Nutrition), and has completed his Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He has advanced training in Functional Dry Needling, joint manipulation, chronic pain management, nutrition, as well as vestibular and TMJ disorders.

Outside the clinic you can find Dana on the jiu-jitsu mats, taking in the island’s natural beauty, or tending to his admittedly too many house plants (which have now spilled into the clinic).