When does Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) help?

MLD is a gentle yet powerful therapy that supports the lymphatic system, boosts immune function, and improves overall wellbeing. MLD may benefit people with:

• Lymphoedema

• Lipoedema

• Post-surgery swelling and recovery

• Sinusitis or congestion

• Stress and anxiety

• Fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue

• Arthritis or joint pain

• Detoxification and immune support

How does MLD help with lymphoedema?

MLD is internationally recognised as a core component of best-practice lymphoedema management. It is an evidence-based therapy recommended worldwide as part of the standard treatment approach, supporting both symptom management and long-term limb health. MLD helps to:

• Reduce swelling and pain: Gentle stimulation of the lymphatic system encourages fluid movement, relieving oedema and associated discomfort.

• Improve lymphatic flow: By activating lymphatic pathways, MLD enhances drainage, helping prevent fluid accumulation and reducing the risk of complications.

• Improve mobility and comfort: Reducing limb swelling and tissue tension promotes greater flexibility, range of motion, and daily functional ability.

• Soften hardened (fibrotic) tissue: MLD can reduce tissue congestion and fibrosis, making the skin and underlying tissue more pliable and responsive to compression therapy.

• Support long-term management: Regular MLD sessions complement other therapies, such as compression garments and exercise, helping maintain limb health, prevent progression, and improve quality of life.

Recognised by international lymphoedema guidelines, MLD is considered an essential therapy for both newly diagnosed and long-standing lymphoedema, providing a foundation for effective, ongoing management.

How does MLD help with lipoedema?

Most recent international guidelines recognise MLD as an essential component of comprehensive lipoedema management, supporting both conservative care and surgical pathways. MLD is a gentle, specialised therapy that stimulates lymphatic flow, helping to manage symptoms, improve tissue health, and enhance overall quality of life for people living with lipoedema. For people living with lipoedema, MLD can:

• Ease pain, heaviness, and swelling: By promoting lymphatic drainage, MLD reduces fluid accumulation, alleviating discomfort and the sensation of heaviness in affected areas.

• Improve circulation and venous return: Enhanced lymph and blood flow support tissue health and reduce vascular stress.

• Strengthen fragile capillaries: Gentle stimulation can help maintain the integrity of delicate blood vessels, reducing bruising and microvascular damage.

• Soften fibrotic and nodular tissue: MLD can reduce tissue congestion, making fibrotic or nodular areas feel softer and more pliable over time.

• Enhance mobility and daily function: By decreasing swelling and improving tissue flexibility, MLD supports easier movement and functional activity.

• Support recovery post-surgery: MLD is particularly valuable after liposuction or other surgical interventions for lipoedema, helping restore lymphatic pathways, manage post-operative swelling, and optimise healing.

• Prevent secondary lymphoedema: Regular MLD can help reduce the risk of lymphatic complications, supporting long-term limb health.

Through its inclusion in international guidelines, MLD is recognised as a cornerstone therapy that complements other treatments, helping individuals achieve symptom relief, improved function, and better surgical outcomes when indicated.

Can MLD help with venous insufficiency?

Yes. In venous insufficiency, the veins have difficulty returning blood efficiently to the heart, often leading to swelling, heaviness, and discomfort in the legs. MLD can play a supportive role in managing these symptoms by:

• Reducing swelling: Gentle lymphatic stimulation helps move excess fluid out of the tissues, decreasing oedema in the legs.

• Improving circulation: By encouraging fluid movement, MLD supports venous return and enhances overall blood flow.

• Relieving heaviness and discomfort: Easing fluid build-up and stimulating lymphatic flow can make the legs feel lighter and more comfortable.

• Supporting skin and tissue health: MLD can improve skin texture and reduce congestion in the affected tissues, which may help prevent complications such as skin changes or ulceration.

While MLD does not correct the underlying vein pathology, it is internationally recognised as a beneficial adjunct therapy in the conservative management of venous insufficiency.

Is MLD useful for general wellness and detoxification?

Absolutely. MLD is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that stimulates the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and removing waste products from the body. MLD can:

• Support detoxification: By stimulating lymph flow, MLD helps transport metabolic waste, toxins, and excess fluid away from tissues, aiding the body’s natural cleansing processes.

• Boost immune system function: Enhanced lymphatic circulation allows immune cells to move efficiently throughout the body, supporting the body’s defence mechanisms.

• Reduce inflammation and improve circulation: MLD promotes better movement of lymph and blood, which can help decrease swelling, ease tissue congestion, and improve overall tissue health.

• Aid recovery after illness or infection: By improving lymph flow, MLD can assist in faster recovery and reduce post-illness fatigue.

• Promote relaxation and reduce stress: The gentle, rhythmic movements of MLD stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, supporting relaxation, reducing tension, and enhancing overall well-being.

Regular MLD sessions can be a valuable addition to a wellness routine, supporting both physical health and emotional balance.

How does MLD support recovery after surgery?

MLD is frequently incorporated into post-operative care because it supports the body’s natural healing processes. Following surgery, tissues can become congested with fluid, bruising, and scar tissue, which can delay recovery. MLD can help by:

• Reducing swelling, bruising, and discomfort: Gentle lymphatic stimulation moves excess fluid away from tissues, helping to decrease oedema and alleviate pain or tightness.

• Improving circulation and recovery time: Enhanced lymphatic and blood flow supports nutrient delivery to tissues, accelerates healing, and promotes more efficient tissue repair.

• Supporting scar tissue management: MLD can soften developing scar tissue, helping to prevent adhesions and improve skin elasticity.

• Restoring lymphatic pathways: Surgery can disrupt normal lymphatic flow. MLD encourages the re-routing of lymph through alternate pathways, reducing the risk of post-surgical lymphoedema.

• Enhancing range of motion: By reducing tissue congestion and stiffness, MLD can help restore mobility in the affected area, supporting functional recovery and comfort.

MLD is recognised internationally as an important part of post-surgical rehabilitation, particularly after procedures that involve lymphatic disruption, extensive tissue manipulation, or aesthetic surgery.

What should I expect before, during, and after MLD treatment?

During your MLD session, your comfort, privacy, and safety are our priority.

Before your session:

• Consultation to discuss health history, current concerns, and treatment goals.

• Wear comfortable clothing.

• Stay hydrated.

• Avoid coffee and alcohol.

During your session:

• You will be asked to remove your bra, but your underwear can stay on.

• A towel or drape will be used to maintain your modesty and comfort while accessing the areas that require treatment.

• The therapist will use gentle, precise movements to encourage lymphatic flow and reduce swelling.

• You may feel a sense of relaxation, lightness, or temporary increased urination as fluid moves through the lymphatic system.

• Sessions usually focus on areas such as the limbs, torso, or post-surgical regions, depending on your individual needs.

After your session:

• You may feel relaxed, light, or energised.

• Swelling may reduce.

• You may experience increased urination/bowel movements.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Avoid strenuous activity that day.

What oils and liniments do you use in clinic?

All our products are Australian owned and manufactured and chosen for their high-quality, skin-friendly ingredients.

Pure Sweet Almond Oil

Melrose Sweet Almond Oil is pressed from seeds of the almond tree (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) which are of the sweet variety, the very same as the ones you eat. Almonds are naturally rich in vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and we use this oil as a carrier oil for massage.

Key benefits:

• Contains vitamin E and a source of antioxidants

• Nourishes skin

• Vegan-friendly

Simplicité Oils

Simplicité Natural Skin Care is an ethical skin care brand renowned for results since 1992. These products are based on Herbalist and Naturopath David Lyons’ clinical naturopathic work since 1983 and his seven years prior to that treating skin cancer and sun damaged skin at The Royal Brisbane Hospital.

These gentle, luxurious and highly nutritive products are cruelty free and use certified organic ingredients.

Not only do we use these beautiful products during session but we also stock these in clinic and online.

ActivFlex

ActivFlex is a pain relief and massage gel used to treat all ages and skin types. It has a unique blend of menthol that offers a refreshing coolness and a comforting warmth. This dual action aims to ease tension and provide soothing relief from:

• Symptoms of Arthritis

• Muscle Soreness

• Joint Inflammation

What is SOZO Bioimpedance Spectroscopy and how does it help me?

The SOZO device (by ImpediMed) is a non-invasive tool that measures fluid levels and body composition in just 30 seconds. It provides valuable information to support personalised care and track your progress over time.

Benefits:

• Detect lymphoedema early: Identifies fluid changes before visible swelling occurs, allowing for timely intervention.

• Track changes over time: Monitor fluid levels, limb health, and body composition across appointments.

• Guide personalised treatment: Helps clinicians determine the most appropriate therapies, including Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression therapy, or exercise programs.

• Inform referrals and holistic care: Data can indicate whether you may benefit from additional services, such as seeing our in-house physiotherapist for strength and mobility, or referrals to a dietitian/nutritionist for body composition and wellness management.

• Reduce long-term swelling risks: Early and ongoing monitoring helps prevent complications and support long-term limb and overall health.

• Assess body composition: Provides insights into hydration, muscle mass, fat mass, and lean mass, to support overall wellness..

What’s required of you:

• A profile must first be created and your age, height and weight recorded.

• Remove shoes, socks, and metal jewellery.

• Stand barefoot on the device and place palms flat on the plates.

• Stand still, normal breathing and wait 30 seconds until the scan is complete.

Contraindications:

• Not suitable for individuals with pacemakers or implanted electronic devices.

• Not recommended during pregnancy.

What is the LTU-904 Low Level Laser and how does it help?

The LTU-904 Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) device uses safe, low-intensity light to stimulate healing and lymphatic repair.

Benefits:

• Stimulates growth of new lymphatic pathways.

• Improves scar tissue flexibility.

• Reduces pain and inflammation.

• Enhances soft tissue healing.

What to expect:

• Painless and non-invasive.

• No heat or discomfort.

• Often combined with MLD for best results.

Contraindications:

• Avoid over active cancer sites.

• Not used during pregnancy over the uterus.

• Not applied over active infection.

How do you run your private Pilates and small group exercise classes?

We offer both 1:1 private sessions and small group classes designed for women’s and men’s health and rehabilitation.

Getting started:

• All clients must first attend an initial physiotherapy assessment.

• This covers your health history, posture, strength, and mobility.

• A SOZO scan is also completed to record your baseline body composition measurements.

• From here, a safe and tailored program is created by our AHPRA registered physiotherapist, Claudia.

Class options:

• Private 1:1 sessions – fully personalised.

• Small group classes – maximum of three (3) clients per class to ensure a supportive environment is provided with individual guidance.

Benefits:

• Improve posture, strength, balance and flexibility.

• Support lymphatic and circulatory health.

• Reduce risk of swelling and injury.

• Build confidence and energy in movement.

Do you offer musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy for injury recovery?

Yes — our experienced physiotherapist provides MSK physiotherapy to help with a wide range of injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.

What MSK physiotherapy can help with:

• Upper limb, lower limb and spinal injuries.

• Sports injuries (e.g. sprains, strains, tendon issues).

• Post-operative rehabilitation.

• Chronic pain conditions.

• Back, neck, and joint pain.

• Fatigue management post cancer treatment

What treatment involves:

• A detailed physiotherapy assessment to identify the cause of pain or dysfunction.

• A combination of hands-on therapy, exercise prescription, and education.

• Progress tracking to optimise recovery.

Benefits of MSK physiotherapy:

• Reduce pain and inflammation.

• Restore strength, flexibility, and movement.

• Prevent re-injury through targeted rehabilitation.

• Support safe return to daily activity, work, or sport.

What types of referrals and funding do you accept?

At The Lymphoedema Lounge, we accept a variety of referral types and funding options to make our services accessible to all clients:

• WorkCover Queensland (WCQ) – for workplace-related injuries.

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – for eligible participants seeking support for daily living, rehabilitation, or therapy.

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – for eligible veterans and their dependents.

• Third-party funding – where an insurer or organisation covers treatment costs.

• Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) / Chronic Disease Management Plans – for GP-referred therapy.

• Private clients – self-referrals are welcome and private health funds are accepted

How it works:

• Bring your referral documentation where required.

• Our team will confirm eligibility, cost, and session scheduling.

• We also provide detailed reports for funding purposes when required.