07/09/2026
Don’t get me wrong, you don’t always need to see a lymphoedema therapist for massage.
If you are healthy and have a functioning lymphatic system, lymphatic massage with a massage therapist is probably fine.
BUT
If you have lymphoedema, lipoedema, vascular insufficiency, persistent oedema, dependent oedema, post surgical needs, are pregnant or unsure… you should be getting your MLD from an accredited lymphoedema therapist.
These are 3 things your therapist SHOULDN’T do:
🚩 They shouldn’t use a feather light touch. Evidence now supports firmer, slower work where appropriate. Meaning, the techniques and pressure should be adapted to the lymphatic anatomy and changes we see and feel in the tissues.
While we’re at it, it shouldn’t be too firm, painful or uncomfortable, a lot of the vessels are still quite superficial. It’s not a deep tissue massage.
🚩 They shouldn’t start distally. We need to clear the area that we are sending fluid to AND it’s important to be promoting lymph flow in the correct pathway. We always start proximally and with diaphragmatic breathing.
🚩 They ONLY do MLD. Lymphoedema in particular requires a multi pronged approach and MLD is just one part of that. They should also be taking measures, talking about skin care, self management, promoting exercise and discussing options of things like compression, laser, pumps etc.
Of course, if in doubt just ASK your therapist if they are lymphoedema trained. In Australia you can find accredited therapists through the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA) website 👍🏼
