Why should I attend this Clinical Manual Lymphatic Drainage Workshop?

This workshop is intensive. There is a three week block of detailed online learning very similar to the training you require to be a Decongestive Lymphatic Therapist. The only component missing is compression therapy (garments and bandaging) and tuition on performing a vascular assessment which is required to apply compression therapy. At a later stage, you may wish to add in compression therapy. With both certifications, you will be a qualified decongestive lymphatic therapist and can enquire to apply to be a member of the Australasian Lymphology Association.

This training will allow you to broaden the scope of clients you can treat to include those who have had lymph node removal or damage including surgery and/or radiation for the treatment of cancer; those having multiple surgeries over a period of time where lymphatic pathways and nodes have been disrupted; clients suffering burns, crush fractures and degloving as well as general conditions like sinusitis, headache, acne, immobility, travel.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is just one component of a bigger picture. When done in isolation on a client who has a problem with their lymph nodes (via a congenital cause or through surgery, resection, radiation or trauma) without a thorough understanding of the consequences and contraindications, could inadvertently put them at risk of developing or worsening lymphoedema. You will learn how the lymphatic system works and its relationship to other body systems, with a particular emphasis on cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal systems. This course will teach you how to find the “why” behind your client’s swelling. You will learn what questions to ask, how to drill down, listen to what is not said and read subtle changes. You will apply your critical thinking skills to become quite investigative to identify the root cause to offer your client an evidence-based, person-centred treatment plan. You will learn how to differentiate between oedema, lymphoedema and lipoedema and the importance of referral. You will discover how to incorporate this technique with what you are already doing.

At the practical workshop students receive a mini treatment to gain a better understanding of what it feels like. You will be able to identify the different techniques and pressures through this experience. Manual lymphatic drainage is about touch, skin texture and pressures, skills that are difficult to learn virtually.

Please note:

This is more than just “moving fluid” and “gentle touch”. Classes are small. The training is intensive and you need to be present. I keep the classes to a maximum of 6-8.

Have you ever attended training in a large class?  It can be difficult to find the time to have your questions answered, you may not feel brave enough to ask a question in a large class for fear of feeling silly and sometimes there just isn’t enough time to have 1:1 with the teacher to check techniques.  Smaller classes give you plenty of time to learn and practice how to safely and effectively deliver Manual Lymphatic Drainage to clients who have cancer or other serious conditions affecting their lymphatic system. Private classes are available.

Check your suitability