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Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

Gentle support for relaxation, circulation and fluid movement

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Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic treatment designed to support the body’s lymphatic system — an important part of the body responsible for fluid balance, waste removal and immune function.

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Using very light, slow and flowing movements on the skin, MLD encourages the natural movement of lymph fluid through the body. Unlike deep tissue massage, MLD is extremely gentle and deeply relaxing, often leaving clients feeling lighter, calmer and less “puffy” afterwards.

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What Can MLD Help With?

 

MLD may help support:

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  • General fluid retention and puffiness

  • Heavy or tired legs

  • Mild swelling

  • Stress and tension

  • Relaxation and nervous system calming

  • Recovery after exercise

  • Facial puffiness and congestion

  • Feelings of sluggishness or heaviness

  • Fibromyalgia symptoms

  • Scar tissue support once fully healed

  • General wellbeing and circulation

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MLD can also be a wonderful treatment simply for relaxation and helping the body slow down and reset.

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My Scope of Practice

 

At Follan Natural Health Centre, MLD treatments are provided within my training and scope of practice.

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I offer general wellness and relaxation-focused MLD treatment, along with support for mild fluid retention and general lymphatic congestion.

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I can also offer general MLD support for clients with conditions such as:

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Lymphoedema

  • Lipoedema

  • Post-surgical swelling​

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However, I am not a lymphoedema or oncology specialist therapist, and I do not provide specialist treatment for:

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  • Oncology-related lymphatic conditions

  • Surgical lymph node removal sites

  • Complex lymphatic disorders​

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Where appropriate, I may recommend assessment or ongoing management with a GP or specialist lymphatic practitioner alongside treatment.

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Your safety and wellbeing will always come first.

What Does MLD Feel Like?

 

Many people are surprised by how gentle MLD is.

The treatment uses light rhythmic movements on the skin rather than deep pressure into muscles. The aim is to encourage lymphatic flow and calm the nervous system, not to “work deeply” into tissue.

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Most clients find MLD:

  • Deeply relaxing

  • Calming

  • Soothing

  • Gentle and non-invasive

 

Some people notice increased urination afterwards, mild tiredness or a feeling of lightness following treatment.​

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What Should I Wear?

 

Please wear comfortable clothing to your appointment.

Depending on the treatment area, you may be asked to remove some clothing, however you will always be professionally draped with towels throughout the session to ensure you feel comfortable, relaxed and appropriately covered at all times.

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For full body sessions:

  • Comfortable underwear is ideal

  • Avoid very tight clothing where possible

  • Try to arrive well hydrated​

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For female clients, removal of the bra is usually recommended during treatment, as this allows effective treatment and drainage around the chest and axillary (underarm) lymph nodes. Your comfort and privacy will always be prioritised, and careful draping will be used throughout the session.

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Aftercare Advice

 

To help support your lymphatic system after treatment, it is recommended to:

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  • Drink plenty of water

  • Move gently and avoid prolonged sitting

  • Go for a short walk if possible

  • Avoid excessive alcohol immediately afterwards

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Is MLD Right For Me?

 

If you are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for you, please feel free to get in touch before booking and I will be happy to advise.

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