ILANA HOROWITZ, RMT
Massage Therapy with Contemporary Medical Acupuncture
Intelligent Care that Feels Amazing
MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE (MLD)
WHAT IS MLD?
The lymph system is the body's collection of vessels and nodes that:
-
help fight infection as part the immune system;
-
act as a one-way drainage system, transporting excess fluid from the tissues back to blood circulation; and
-
removes waste products from cells.
See more detailed information about the lymph system.
​
Manual lymph drainage aims to boost the system so that lymph moves more freely towards the body's blood circulation network. There are a number of styles of manual lymph drainage. My training is through the Dr. Vodder School International, the original and most widely-recognized school for MLD. ​
​
With my level of training, in patients with healthy lymph systems, I can help:
-
reduce bloating and swelling,
-
ease pain, and
-
promote relaxation.
I cannot, however, treat patients with lymphedema/lipedema, or areas where lymph nodes have been removed; but I can refer you to an RMT who has the appropriate level of training. If you are not sure if I can help you, feel free to contact me with questions. Please note that I do not perform cosmetic or weight loss lymph drainage (such as Brazilian).

The Lymph System (1)
.jpg)
Lymph Drainage Map (2)
WHAT DOES A MLD TREATMENT LOOK LIKE?
The treatment consists of a defined sequence of very gentle, slow, repetitive, skin stretching techniques. Regardless of what area of the body you want treated, it will always begin with a sequence on your neck and shoulders.
​
You will be draped with sheets just as you would in a regular massage treatment, but no lotion will be used. Direct contact with skin is required for the neck, shoulders, and the area(s) of the body being treated.
Typically, in a 60-minute treatment, one to two areas of the body can be addressed. Please understand, there is not enough time to do a full body MLD treatment, even in a 90-minute appointment. Please contact me if you are not sure what appointment length to book.
​​
​