Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the Soft Tissue Conference hosted by the Melbourne Institute of Massage and Myotherapy (MIMT). With multiple presentations covering topics, from sports and injury management to evidence-based myofascial release, the conference offered plenty to absorb. It was however a presentation by Michelle Vassalo on Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) that stood out most, sparking new insights on lymphatic techniques and their impact in everyday remedial massage practice.

Michelle’s presentation on MLD highlighted how incorporating lymphatic techniques can offer a variety of benefits when integrated into regular remedial massage sessions. But this raised an interesting question: why start working with the lymphatic system when the issue lies within muscle and fascia? 

For those unfamiliar with the lymphatic system, it's vital to know that this network is crucial for immunity and fluid balance throughout the body. Whilst there are many responsibilities of the lymphatic system, one main function is processing metabolic waste and other substances in our body’s tissues. While most these are natural byproducts of the body’s processes, they can accumulate, especially in areas of soreness, stiffness, or restriction, causing discomfort and limiting mobility.

In remedial massage, we often focus on releasing tension in muscles and fascia, which inadvertently releases more of these metabolic byproducts and in some cases initiates an inflammatory response. This is where lymphatic drainage proves highly beneficial. By starting with a gentle lymphatic opening sequence—even for just 10 minutes—we promote lymphatic flow, clearing waste more efficiently and promoting immunity. This enhances the massage's overall effectiveness and reduces post-treatment soreness.

Lymphatic drainage techniques are extremely light, working only a few millimetres in depth, and are very slow and rhythmic. Doing so also quickly engages the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation. This shift helps muscles to release tension, providing therapists with a more receptive and softened muscle structure to work on. Starting each session with MLD techniques can create a calm foundation, making the rest of the treatment more effective.

I learned Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) techniques during my studies in remedial massage, but I had no idea just how transformative it could be when integrated into remedial massage practice. After attending the recent MIMT Soft Tissue Conference and gaining new insights, I started offering 10–15 minutes of lymphatic drainage techniques at the beginning of remedial massage for clients who I felt would benefit most. The results have been outstanding.

Here is what some clients have experienced when lymphatic drainage preceded deep tissue massage work. 

“I made an appointment with Dylan due to significant stress my body was experiencing. The first massage was amazing and really relieved tension. For the follow up massage, he included  lymphatic drainage techniques. This was next level. It enabled my body to feel completely relaxed and free of tension. The benefits were so great that I recommended my pregnant daughter to make an appointment. This type of massage is definitely something I will do many more times in the future.”

“I’ve had two sessions including lymphatic drainage from Dylan. On both occasions the experience was very soft and calming as he gently pressed on my skin. During the session I can actively feel my body relaxing and even though the touch is light, the effects are profound. During and following the session I was in a state of extreme relaxation and when coupled with a deep tissue massage, my muscles were completely relaxed too. After a great night sleep, the next day I felt completely refreshed and was tension free, like I had been to a day spa the day before.”

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