Manual Lymph Drainage for Lymphedema
Manual Lymph Drainage for Lymphedema
Dr. Vodder–based Manual Lymph Drainage is available for clients living with medically diagnosed primary or secondary lymphedema.
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MLD uses gentle, specific skin-stretching techniques to support movement through available lymphatic pathways. Sessions may help reduce feelings of heaviness or congestion and improve comfort.
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This service may be appropriate for:
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Primary lymphedema
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Secondary lymphedema
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Breast cancer–related lymphedema
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Other medically evaluated oncology-related lymphatic changes
Rachel is knowledgeable about ME/CFS and warned me in advance that our first few sessions could cause some PEM. I didn't have a full crash, but did experience some PEM after our first 2 sessions, which she asked about and then adjusted the intensity of our sessions accordingly. After this initial adjustment period, I have not experienced any post-session PEM and instead have much more energy after I see her. I end each 30 minute session feeling like I have had the best 3 hour nap of my life. One of my concerns when we did our phone consultation was that I also have hEDS, so any kind of deep tissue massage can damage my joints, but all of the work Rachel does is extremely gentle and my joints feel even better afterwards.
- Past Client
The clinic itself is very calming and low stimulation. There is always an air purifier running in the room and Rachel wears a high-quality mask, so I feel safe being there even though I am immunocompromised. Her massage table lowers, so even when I was in my wheelchair, I could easily transfer onto it. The accessible entrance is at the back of the building up a fairly steep driveway (I felt fine going up backwards in my wheelchair with my feet on the ground for stability, but if you aren't ambulatory you might need to be dropped off at this back entrance). The building has an old elevator that is a bit difficult to navigate on your own with mobility aids, but Rachel always ran downstairs to help me with the elevator door, which is so kind! She even moves the door mat when I come in with a mobility aid so I don't have any obstacles to navigate over.
- Past Client
I went for an introductory assessment and treatment for post-radiation lymphedema in my neck. Rachel was very attentive, skilled and knowledgeable about the condition and treatment options, and the massage really seemed to help. Hopefully, repeat treatments will help make this a temporary condition.
- Google Review
If you're on the fence, please give Rachel a try. She has made the biggest difference in my life and is a joy to work with!
- Google Review
Scope of Service
I provide Manual Lymph Drainage only. I do not provide:
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Compression bandaging
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Compression-garment fitting
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Full Complete Decongestive Therapy
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Medical diagnosis
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Treatment of unexplained swelling
Clients should continue following the care plan provided by their physician or lymphedema healthcare team.
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Sudden or unexplained swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or shortness of breath requires prompt medical evaluation.