How to Find a Qualified Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
If you’ve been searching for lymphatic drainage in the Grand Valley, you’ve probably noticed that a lot of practitioners list it as a service. What’s harder to know from the outside is whether their training is adequate for your specific needs — especially if you’re dealing with a complex or chronic health condition.
Not All Lymphatic Massage Is the Same
There are different types of lymphatic massage being marketed, and unfortunately, not all of it is indeed lymphatic massage — nor are all therapists marketing lymphatic massage trained in effective approaches. The Klose-Vodder (MLD) and Chikly (Lymphatic Drainage Therapy) are the primary techniques I use, and I often integrate Brazilian lymphatic abdominal massage and some myofascial therapeutic techniques. Cosmetic post-op massage includes many different approaches, including scar tissue and fibrosis techniques along with lymphatic drainage.
Please note: when looking for a lymphatic therapist, many do not have extensive training to work on complex medical conditions. Short training sessions at massage schools provide an excellent introduction to lymphatic drainage for relaxation and mild swelling or bloating for aesthetic purposes, and perhaps after orthopedic surgeries if there are no other complex or inflammatory diseases or health issues present.
What is MLD, Exactly?
MLD is an acronym for Manual Lymph Drainage, a form of lymph massage developed by Emil Vodder in the 1930s. It is a skin stretch technique that is gentle, rhythmic, slow, and encompasses somewhat circular wave-like motions. This technique works better to move fluid than methods that use oil and slide or glide on the skin — with the exception, in my opinion, of Brazilian abdominal massage, which I incorporate.
Training Institutions to Look For
When looking for a legitimate lymphatic drainage practitioner to help with medically-related lymphatic congestion, I recommend finding someone with training from one or more of the following organizations:
- Vodder School
- Klose Training
- Chikly — Lymphatic Drainage Therapy
- Norton
- ACOLS
- Foldi
- Casley-Smith
- Leduc
Questions Worth Asking Before You Book
When reaching out to a potential therapist, don’t be shy about asking directly:
- Where did you receive your lymphatic training, and how many hours was it?
- Have you worked with clients who have [your specific condition]?
- Which technique do you primarily use — Vodder, Chikly, or another approach?
A qualified practitioner will answer these questions clearly and confidently. If you’re getting vague responses or the conversation feels evasive, trust that instinct.
Where to Search for Practitioners
You can search for practitioners through the ABMP Practitioner Directory and the AMTA Massage Therapist Locator — both allow you to search specifically for lymphatic drainage.
Other MLD practitioners in Grand Junction: Body Therapeutics offers lymphatic work, though I am not fully acquainted with the training received by their practitioners. You can reach them at bodytmm.com or (970) 644-5255.
Kat McArthur is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Fitness Instructor specializing in Manual Lymphatic Drainage for those with healthy bodies and chronic health conditions. After facing years of debilitating symptoms related to autoimmune diseases, conditions and other idiopathic medical issues, she discovered the benefits of lymphatic massage in helping reduce and manage symptoms. Her passion is providing lymphatic education and fitness to her clients, community, and beyond. She is dedicated to helping clients take accountability for their health and wellness by offering to improve their daily lives.