Lymphatic Massage & Lymphedema Care in Calgary
At Connecta Health, we offer lymphatic massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for two distinct needs — and knowing the difference helps you get the right care.
General Lymphatic Massage
A gentle, soothing therapy that supports your lymphatic system, reduces puffiness, relieves stress, supports immune function, and aids recovery after surgery or injury. Our RMT team provides this service.
Clinical Lymphedema Care
For lymphedema management, post-cancer lymphatic care, and Complete Decongestive Therapy, this requires specialized Vodder-trained certification. At Connecta, Elizabeth Koleyak is our Vodder-trained physiotherapist and provides all clinical lymphatic care.
Not sure which one you need? Book a virtual consultation, and we'll point you in the right direction.
Vodder Method of Lymphatic Massage (MLD)
Developed in France in 1932 by Emil and Estrid Vodder, MLD has grown to be the most well-known manual technique to assist lymph flow and aid in the drainage of tissues. Based on scientific and physiological principles, the skin is stretched and torqued in a specific manner, proven to encourage lymph flow. When performed with the correct pressure, direction and speed, it can greatly enhance recovery and facilitate drainage, which can have profound effects on the systems in the body.
Lymphatic Massage
General MLD is great for:
Plastic surgery recovery
Post-operative swelling
Chronic sinusitis
Detox support
Sports injuries
Concussion
Pelvic congestion
Abdominal bloating
Lymphedema & Oncology Lymphatic Care
This is for you if you have:
Lymphedema — diagnosed or suspected*
Had lymph nodes removed during cancer treatment*
Post-cancer swelling or heaviness*
Been referred for Vodder-trained therapy*
Need compression garment fitting*
Post-mastectomy lymphatic care*
*If you’re looking for any of the following, please book specifically with Elizabeth, our Physiotherapist.
Benefits
A well-functioning lymphatic system maintains overall health, removes waste and pathogens, and balances fluid in your body. Surgeries, infections or diseases can alter the normal functions in your body, and manual lymph drainage assists your lymphatic system in improving and returning to that balance.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) has a pain-relieving effect and can improve individuals struggling with sports injuries and conditions like venous stasis ulceration, adhesive capsulitis, arthritic conditions, acute whiplash, Meniéres Syndrome, sinusitis, migraines and pre- and post-plastic surgery.
From Our Therapists
What to expect in a session
Lymphatic massage requires access to the skin and superficial tissues of the body. The area worked on will be undraped at any given time, using the technique of light touches beginning in the neck area to encourage drainage. If you have multiple areas of swelling, injury or surgery, we recommend you book your initial visit for 90 minutes. Your therapist will do an assessment and decide on a treatment plan for your future visits.
Please let your therapist know if you will require bandaging or taping during your visit.
Our Services
Visceral Manipulation
Lymphatic Massage
Scar Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy
Physio
Massage Therapy
At Connecta Health we strive to support and provide treatment options to empower you.
The Connecta Health Team
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Renee Simons, RMT
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Amanda Paszkowski, RMT
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Andrea Delannoy, RMT
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Cassie Hutt, RMT
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Elizabeth Koleyak, Physio