FAQs
Experience
Q. What is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)?
A. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. This helps the body eliminate excess fluid, reduce inflammation, and support detoxification, improving circulation and boosting immunity.
Q. What conditions can MLD help with?
A. MLD can support recovery and symptom relief for:
- Lymphoedema (primary and secondary)
- Post-operative swelling (including cosmetic surgery)
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, chronic sinusitis)
- Lipoedema
- Chronic pain conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, migraines)
- Stress and fatigue
- Sports-related recovery.
Q. How does MLD differ from a regular massage?
A. Unlike deep tissue massage, MLD involves light, methodical hand movements that follow lymphatic pathways. It doesn’t target muscle tension but rather stimulates lymph flow to support detox and reduce swelling.
Q. Is MLD painful?
A. No. MLD is non-invasive and uses gentle pressure. Clients often describe the treatment as soothing and relaxing—even those sensitive to touch find it comfortable.
Q. Can MLD help reduce cellulite?
A. Yes, particularly for grade 1 and 2 cellulite. MLD boosts circulation and reduces fluid retention, which improves skin tone and texture.
Q. Is MLD useful after cosmetic surgery?
A. Absolutely. MLD helps speed up recovery by reducing swelling and bruising, minimising scar formation, and alleviating post-op discomfort. It is especially beneficial following procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, or facelifts.
Q. How soon after surgery should I begin MLD?
A. Most surgeons recommend starting 24–48 hours after surgery, but always consult your healthcare provider beforehand.
Q. How many sessions do I need?
A. Treatment frequency depends on your condition:
- Post-surgery: 2–3 sessions in the first week, then 1–2 sessions for next two weeks, then weekly
- Chronic conditions: Weekly or bi-weekly
- General wellness: Every 2–4 weeks.
Q. Can MLD help with stress and anxiety?
A. Yes. MLD calms the nervous system, reduces muscle tension, and improves sleep—helping manage both mental and physical stress symptoms.
Q. What is Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT)?
A. DLT combines MLD with compression therapy, skincare, and exercise. It's the gold standard for managing lymphoedema, especially post-cancer treatment.
Q. Can I have MLD if I have metal implants or prosthetics?
A. Yes. MLD is safe over implants. Deep Oscillation therapy, which uses electrostatic pulses, can also be used effectively in such cases.
Q. Is MLD safe during pregnancy?
A. MLD can help manage pregnancy-related swelling, especially in the legs. However, please consult your midwife or GP before starting treatment.
Q. What should I wear to an MLD session?
A. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to undress to your underwear depending on the treatment area, but your modesty and comfort are always respected.
Q. Do I need a doctor’s referral for MLD?
A. No referral is required, but if you have a medical condition or are post-surgical, it’s advisable to consult your GP or consultant first.
Q. Can MLD reduce post-surgical bruising?
A. Yes. MLD enhances lymphatic flow and helps clear waste products, accelerating the healing process and reducing visible bruising.
Q. Can MLD treat Lipoedema?
A. Yes. MLD helps manage Lipoedema symptoms by reducing swelling, easing pain, and improving mobility. It also helps prevent the progression to Lymphoedema.
Q. What are the signs of Lymphoedema?
A. Swelling, tight skin, restricted movement, repeated infections, and skin folds. Early treatment is key to effective management.
Q. Can MLD help with chronic pain?
A. Yes. MLD can reduce swelling and nerve compression, helping relieve pain in conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraines.
Q. Can MLD help prevent infections like cellulitis?
A. MLD helps maintain healthy lymph flow, reducing the risk of infections like cellulitis, especially for those with lymphoedema. If cellulitis is present, seek immediate medical care.
Q. Is MLD suitable for athletes?
A. Yes. Athletes use MLD to enhance recovery, reduce DOMS, flush out lactic acid, and prevent injury. It’s ideal pre- and post-event.
Q. What is Deep Oscillation Therapy?
A. This technique uses electrostatic impulses to penetrate tissue layers, reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing—even over implants or metal joints.
Q. Can I book MLD home visits?
A. Currently, treatments are only provided at my Wellingborough clinic. Contact me to discuss any exceptional needs.
Q. How can MLD support detoxification and immune function?
A. By promoting lymph flow, MLD assists in flushing out toxins and supporting immune cell transport, improving overall resilience and recovery.
Q. How long will it take for me to feel better after MLD?
A. Each body responds differently. While some clients feel immediate relief from swelling or discomfort, others may notice gradual improvements over a few sessions. If you're managing a chronic condition like lymphoedema, results tend to build with consistent treatment. I’ll always review your progress and adjust your plan to ensure you get the best outcome.
Q. Can I perform lymphatic drainage on myself at home?
A. Self-care techniques like gentle movement, deep breathing, or dry brushing can support your lymphatic system between sessions. However, professional MLD requires specific hand techniques and direction of pressure that are most effective when done by a trained therapist. If you’re interested in simple at-home support, I’m happy to show you safe methods during your appointment.
Q. Is lymphatic drainage massage worth it for me?
A. If you're dealing with swelling, post-surgical recovery, or a chronic condition like lymphoedema or Lipoedema, MLD can be a powerful part of your care plan. It's particularly effective when combined with compression therapy, skincare, and regular movement. For general wellness, it offers benefits like improved circulation, reduced fluid retention, and enhanced relaxation. I'll always tailor your treatment based on your individual needs and goals.
Q. When should I get in touch with my healthcare provider?
A. If you notice sudden or worsening swelling, redness, warmth, or pain—especially if you have lymphoedema—contact your GP or specialist right away. These could be signs of complications like cellulitis, which needs urgent treatment. If you’re ever unsure, I can help guide you on the best next steps and whether further medical advice is needed.
Q. How do I find your clinic?
A. My clinic is located at Tingdene House, 21-24 Bradfield Road, Finedon Road Industrial Estate, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, NN8 4HB.
It’s easy to reach by car and just a short drive from Northampton, Rushden, and Kettering, easy access from A14 and A45. Free parking is available directly outside the building for your convenience.
Look out for Tingdene House—my treatment room is calm, private, and designed to help you feel relaxed from the moment you arrive. If you’re using sat nav, simply enter the postcode NN8 4HB.
Need help finding me? Feel free to send a message on WhatsApp or call 07411 332510—I’ll respond as quickly as possible.
Q. Should I eat before or after my treatment?
A. It’s best to eat a light meal or snack about 1 to 2 hours before your treatment. This ensures you’re comfortable during the session without feeling too full. Avoid heavy or rich meals right beforehand, as manual lymphatic drainage can stimulate your digestive system.
Q. Can I have MLD during my menstrual cycle?
A. Yes, MLD is perfectly safe during your period and can actually help reduce bloating, abdominal discomfort, and water retention.
After your session, make sure to stay well-hydrated—this helps support the lymphatic flow and detox process. You can eat normally after treatment, but again, lighter meals can help your body continue to feel relaxed and refreshed.
Q. Is MLD suitable for men?
A. Absolutely. I treat clients of all genders, and many men benefit from MLD for Lymphoedema, for post-surgical recovery, sports injury prevention, or general detox and stress relief.
Q. Do you treat children or teenagers?
A. MLD can be suitable for younger clients in certain cases, such as after surgery or for managing sinus issues. However, I always assess each case individually and require parental consent for under-18s.
Q. What makes your MLD clinic different?
A. I’m one of only three specialists in Northamptonshire qualified to provide Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT) for cancer-related lymphoedema. I also offer Deep Oscillation Therapy—an advanced treatment not widely available locally—and respond quickly to client queries via WhatsApp for added peace of mind.
Q. Do you offer gift vouchers?
A. Yes, I offer gift vouchers—ideal if you want to treat someone special to the gift of wellness.
Q. Can MLD help with acne or skin issues?
A. Yes. By supporting detoxification and improving circulation, MLD can help reduce puffiness and promote clearer skin in cases like acne or rosacea.