What's the difference between LDT and massage?
Massage works with muscles and connective tissues with the goal of releasing knots and adhesions. LDT engages with fluids throughout the body, with the goal of strengthening and restoring the lymphatic system. Other distinctions include:
- During a massage the client can request the pressure be changed to their preference. With LDT, the therapist applies gentle to moderate pressure, and adjusts the pressure in response to the needs of each area of the body.
- During a massage, the pace of the treatment can vary according to the therapist’s goal for the session. In an LDT session, the pace of the treatment is tailored to the rhythm of lymphatic flow of the person’s body, which has a wave-like nature to it.
- During a massage, treatment is generally applied to the area of discomfort to provide relief. With LDT, treatment may be in the affected area, or far from it, as stagnation in one area can prevent drainage from another.
What can I expect during my session?
LDT is a gentle hands-on therapy designed to activate the body’s lymphatic fluid circulation. During your session you may be lying face up or face down on a therapy table. Cushions are provided for support and comfort, and blankets are available for warmth.
Your therapist uses their hands to assess and treat your issues. Treatment may be in the affected area, or far from it, as stagnation in one area can prevent drainage from another. Gentle pressure and stretching of the skin is used to move the lymphatic fluid through the lymph vessels.
Your therapist uses their hands to assess and treat your issues. Treatment may be in the affected area, or far from it, as stagnation in one area can prevent drainage from another. Gentle pressure and stretching of the skin is used to move the lymphatic fluid through the lymph vessels.
How will I feel after my session?
Everyone responds differently to treatment. LDT is typically well-tolerated with minimal side-effects. While most people feel relaxed after their session, others feel energized. It can take several days for the body to fully adjust to the changes set in motion by LDT. We encourage supporting this process with good hydration, nutritious food, and adequate rest.
Occasionally people experience mild unpleasant side-effects such as intermittent muscle aches, pains, fatigue or nausea. Generally, these symptoms last a few days. Staying well-hydrated will help minimize these symptoms and help them to subside more quickly.
Occasionally people experience mild unpleasant side-effects such as intermittent muscle aches, pains, fatigue or nausea. Generally, these symptoms last a few days. Staying well-hydrated will help minimize these symptoms and help them to subside more quickly.
What activities/exercises can I do afer a session?
If the lymphatic system is uncompromised, there are generally no restrictions on the activities you can do after your session. If you’ve been told you may be at risk for Lymphedema, please consult your physician for activity restrictions.
How many treatments will I need and how often will I need them?
There are many factors that influence the number and frequency of treatments that may be necessary. Two primary considerations are your current state of health and why you are seeking LDT.
Everyone’s body is dynamic and unique, so it’s important to tailor treatment accordingly. Your therapist will work with you to determine a treatment plan, including recommended session length and time between visits. Your treatment plan may change as your body responds to treatment.
Although some people may see improvements after one treatment, it is more common for it to take multiple sessions to experience a noticeable difference. Chronic issues may require regular maintenance sessions.
Everyone’s body is dynamic and unique, so it’s important to tailor treatment accordingly. Your therapist will work with you to determine a treatment plan, including recommended session length and time between visits. Your treatment plan may change as your body responds to treatment.
Although some people may see improvements after one treatment, it is more common for it to take multiple sessions to experience a noticeable difference. Chronic issues may require regular maintenance sessions.
What technique is used?
We use the Chikly method called Lymph Drainage Therapy. One of our therapists is also certified in the Vodder method called Manual Lymph Drainage. However, we find the Chikly method more effective and offer it exclusively.
Why don't you treat Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a serious medical condition involving a chronic insufficiency of the lymphatic system. To date, there is no known cure. It can be successfully managed with Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
DT is a combination of Lymph Drainage Therapy or Manual Lymph Drainage, compression bandaging, compression garments, exercises, and monitored skin care. For a therapist certified in CDT, please visit one of the websites below.
DT is a combination of Lymph Drainage Therapy or Manual Lymph Drainage, compression bandaging, compression garments, exercises, and monitored skin care. For a therapist certified in CDT, please visit one of the websites below.