Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
A highly specialised skill for Post-Surgical support, Lymphoedema & Palliative Care. For Canine Massage Guild Professionals.
Open to Clinical Canine Massage Diploma Therapists who have completed Skills Review 1.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Accelerated Post-Surgical Recovery
Master the clinical ability to intervene within the critical 72-hour post-operative window as well in cases of chronic oedema, utilising MLD to significantly reduce surgical oedema, manage inflammation, and accelerate the natural healing process for complex cases like CCL repairs and is especially useful for cases of chronic seroma.
Advanced Non-Effleurage Technique in Fluid Dynamics
Did you know that for authentic Manual Lymphatic Drainage there should not be any Effleurage in sight? We help you to develop the technical precision required to stimulate lymphatic vessels by utilising specialised techniques based on the Vodder Method of human MLD. Your tutor Natalie Lenton, is trained in this human therapy and has created specific techniques that honour this method but work to suit the dogs’ anatomical structures and presentations. Quite often with astounding results. By mastering specialised movements you will learn to redirect lymph flow, decrease lymphedema, and manage chronic inflammatory conditions with a light, non-invasive yet powerful touch.
Palliative & Immune Support
Expand your clinical reach to include palliative care and senior canine management. MLD provides a profound tool for enhancing immune function and providing comfort to geriatric patients or those with multiple chronic conditions who require a specialised, gentler approach to manual therapy. It support symptom management by promoting lymphatic flow, reducing fluid build up and addressing venous insufficiency to promote patient comfort.
The MLD Clinical Agenda
A comprehensive deep-dive into the practical application of advanced clinical skills.
Advanced Lymphatic Anatomy & Physiology
Conduct an in-depth exploration of the canine lymphatic system’s unique architecture. This module focuses on the location and palpation of lymph nodes and the physiological mechanisms of fluid transport, providing the essential scientific foundation required to perform effective drainage without traditional massage strokes.
Specialised Techniques & Redirecting Flow
Master the art of mimicking the lymphatic system's natural rhythm through highly specialised manual techniques. You will learn why standard effleurage is actually contraindicated and how to utilise specific specialised movements to stimulate lymphangions and other lymphatic vessels to redirect lymph flow away from congested areas.
Clinical Protocols for Oedema & Inflammation
Develop comprehensive MLD protocols for specific clinical presentations, including post-surgical swelling, chronic arthritis-related inflammation, and lymphedema. This session emphasises clinical reasoning, helping you determine when and how to integrate MLD into a broader rehabilitation plan for maximum therapeutic benefit and patient comfort.
Practical Synthesis & Paired Application
Engage in a rigorous practical routine adapted from human healthcare standards. Starting with supervised peer-to-peer practice to refine your tactile sensitivity, you will then transition to working with canine subjects to build confidence in applying a full, professional MLD routine for clinical practice. Depending on the size of the dog MLD can be a lengthy treatment and it is stressed to our clients that this is not a quick 20 minutes, the session can be anywhere from 45 minutes - 75 minutes depending on the size and needs of the canine patient.
Exclusive Professional Development
This advanced CPD offers a unique adaptation of advanced human MLD standards, specifically refined for canine anatomy and behaviour by tutor Natalie Lenton, an experienced bodyworker in both the human and canine field, providing you with a unique approach that is based on true cases and the reality of dealing situations that require MLD. It is the most vital addition to the toolkit of any therapist working in multidisciplinary rehabilitation or palliative care.
Mandatory Pre-requisites:
- Successful completion of the Clinical Canine Massage Practitioner Programme.
- Completion of Skills Review 1.
- Active membership in the Canine Massage Guild.
Workshop Logistics
Join us for a focused day of practical learning in Herefordshire.
- Woolhope Parish Hall, Woolhope, Herefordshire, HR1 4QS
- 09:00 – 16:30
- **Clinical Subject:** A dog is required for this workshop. Please coordinate a "dog buddy" via the FB forum if necessary.
- **Provisioning:** The venue is situated in a rural location; the nearest shop is a 35-minute round trip. Please bring a packed lunch and all necessary provisions for yourself and your dog.
- **Equipment & Texts:** Please bring your treatment couch or floor mats, and your core anatomy references (Evans & Delahunta / Blue Pictorial). Note-taking materials are essential for recording specific MLD routine sequences. Extra padding, props and support for the dog is required.
- **Environment:** Tea, coffee, and biscuits are provided. Haugh Woods is a 3-minute drive for exercise breaks, ensuring your dog remains settled and comfortable throughout this technical training day.
Ready to Elevate Your Practice?
Join Natalie Lenton for this essential skills review and ensure your treatments remain at the cutting edge of clinical care.
*Check the Guild FB Page for current dates and availability.