Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a treatment technique which helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. MLD is performed very slowly, very light (for the most part) and following a specific sequence to match the slow pulse of the Lymphatic System. Treatment is not forcing fluid up the chain, it is focused on giving the Lymphatic system a bit of a boost to increase the uptake of lymph.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is not a massage, it is a treatment. General Swedish Massage addresses the musculoskeletal system, where as Manual Lymphatic Drainage addresses an entirely different system of the body.
The Lymphatic System(LS) is our 2nd drainage system which supports venous systems to absorb or remove molecules that are too large or too many to enter the venous system. It protects the body from infection and destroys old or abnormal cells your no longer needs. If there is trauma, damage or dysfunction in the Lymphatic System, this fluid accumulates, resulting in tissue swelling.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help with injuries from the following:
At Athlete's Care, Lymphatic Drainage is offered by Registered Massage Therapists with additional certifications in Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Lymphatic Drainage is offered at these Toronto Athlete's Care locations:
Athlete's Care York Mills & Leslie, with RMT, Becky Yin Athlete's Care Leaside, with RMT, Becky Yin Athlete's Care Scarborough, with RMT, Tiffany Lee Athlete's Care King & Yonge, with RMT, Marguerite MereyTreatments with a Registered Massage Therapist are offered covered by extended health plans. We bill directly to most insurance providers, find out if we can bill directly to your plan.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a slow, light-touch technique that follows a specific sequence to promote lymphatic fluid movement from swollen areas. It gently stimulates the lymphatic system, our secondary drainage network, to enhance uptake and natural flow, without forcing fluid upward.
MLD is a targeted treatment for the lymphatic system, not a traditional massage. Swedish or general massage focuses on muscles and joints, while MLD addresses fluid dynamics, infection defense, and waste removal in a distinct, skin-deep manner.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) helps manage swelling from trauma or dysfunction in the lymphatic system, which clears large molecules, fights infection, and removes abnormal cells. It's effective for acute injuries like sprains, bruises, contusions, and whiplash; chronic issues such as arthritis, frozen shoulder, tendonitis, hip/knee replacements, allergies, sinusitis, and concussions; and conditions including MS, Down Syndrome, or heavy menstrual bleeding. It also fits wellness routines.
Athletes at Athlete's Care use MLD to speed post-injury swelling reduction, improve circulation alongside physiotherapy, and enhance overall tissue health. Many report faster recovery and less downtime when combined with our sports medicine services.
Yes, MLD is safe, non-invasive, and suitable for most patients when guided by certified providers. At Athlete's Care, Registered Massage Therapists with advanced MLD training deliver sessions in Toronto locations and in Ottawa.
Treatments last 30-60 minutes, starting with assessment. Expect 4-8 sessions for optimal results, with immediate subtle relief. Costs vary by duration and are often covered by extended health plans.
At Athlete's Care, Lymphatic Drainage is offered by Registered Massage Therapists with additional certifications in Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Lymphatic Drainage is offered at these Toronto Athlete's Care locations:
Book online via https://athletescare.janeapp.com/, or call the clinic directly.