Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in Brentwood, CA
Light-touch therapy designed to move excess lymph and fluid out of tissues and back into lymphatic vessels.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized, gentle massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to remove waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the body. As an MLD-C certified therapist, April uses precise, light-touch movements to encourage lymphatic flow and support your body's natural healing processes.
Benefits
Techniques Used
Light Circular Movements
Gentle, rhythmic strokes following lymph pathways to encourage flow.
Pumping Technique
Specific movements to stimulate lymphatic vessels and nodes.
Rotary Technique
Circular motions that direct fluid toward lymph nodes.
Stationary Circles
Light pressure in circular patterns to activate lymphatic response.
Ideal For
Pressure & Intensity
Pressure Level
LightExtremely light (30-40g force) rhythmic pumping movements
Is This Right for You?
When to Choose This Service
Post-surgical swelling, lymphedema, chronic inflammation, detoxification, or immune support
Not Recommended If
You have active cancer, acute infection, congestive heart failure, or blood clots
How This Compares to Alternatives
MLD uses specialized ultra-light lymphatic techniques; Swedish general circulation enhancement
MLD specifically addresses pregnancy-related swelling with certified protocols; pregnancy massage is more comprehensive
Session Recommendations
First-Time Session
Ongoing Care
Intensive Protocol
Maximize Your Results
🔗Pair This With
Supports detoxification and immune function without overwhelming lymphatic system
The Precision of MLD-C Certification
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is perhaps the most misunderstood massage modality. Many practitioners offer 'lymphatic massage,' but true MLD-C (Certified) training represents hundreds of hours of specialized education in the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system.
The technique requires extremely light pressure—just 30-40 grams of force, about the weight of a nickel. This contradicts most people's expectation that 'more pressure equals better results.' But the lymphatic vessels are superficial and extremely delicate; too much pressure actually collapses them and prevents drainage.
I pursued MLD-C certification specifically to work with pre- and post-surgical clients, cancer survivors with lymphedema, and individuals with chronic inflammation. The results can be remarkable—reducing swelling that nothing else has touched, accelerating surgical recovery, and significantly improving quality of life for lymphedema patients.
My approach follows the Vodder technique, starting with clearing the proximal lymph nodes before working distally. Each session is precisely sequenced to follow your body's natural lymphatic pathways, ensuring effective drainage rather than just moving fluid around.
Post-Surgical Success: Reducing Mastectomy Lymphedema
Patricia, 58, breast cancer survivor with chronic arm lymphedema
⚠ The Challenge
Severe swelling in right arm 2 years post-mastectomy, limited range of motion, pain with movement
📋 The Approach
Twice-weekly MLD sessions focusing on alternate drainage pathways, compression garment education, home care protocol
✓ The Result
40% reduction in arm circumference after 8 weeks, significant improvement in mobility, able to resume daily activities without pain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
MLD is a specialized massage technique using very light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system. Unlike traditional massage, MLD uses gentle pressure specifically designed to move lymph fluid through your body's natural drainage pathways.
How soon after surgery can I get MLD?
Typically, MLD can begin 2-3 days after surgery with your surgeon's clearance. It's highly effective for reducing post-surgical swelling and can significantly speed up your recovery process.
Does MLD hurt?
No! MLD uses very light, gentle pressure—much lighter than traditional massage. The touch is so gentle that many clients are surprised it can be so effective. It should never be painful.
How is MLD different from regular massage?
MLD uses specific, light-touch techniques following the body's lymphatic pathways, while regular massage uses deeper pressure on muscles. MLD is focused on moving lymph fluid, not working muscle tissue.
Why Choose Radiant Holistics?
- 20+ years, 10,000+ hours experience
- CAMTC Certified, MLD-C, Reiki Master
- Therapeutic focus, not just relaxation
- Serving Brentwood & East Contra Costa