Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Benefits of MLD

* Reduction in the size of limbs affected by lymphoedema and lipoedema
* Stimulation of the immune system
* Reduction in fluid retention
* Assists in regulating hormonal imbalances in women
* Reduction in swelling and bruising post-surgery
* Reduction in pain

MLD is given to a partially undressed client and careful draping is always applied.

Dry brushing video for general health and lipoedema

This video is for general self care and dry brushing. I give this as homework to most of my clients.

Self care videos post cancer treatment

Compression

I discuss various forms of both day and night time compression.

I use either Cosmac in Artarmon or Garnet Medical in Drummoyne for off the shelf elastic day time compression, or can direct you to retailers closer to your location.

For night time I recommend either the Mobiderm Autofit garments or the Haddenham Comfiwave.

I recommend two companies who specialise in Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression. Medi-Rent – who offer the LX9 or Biocompression BioPants. And, OAPL who have the Lymphapress Device.

Lisa trialling the Medi-Rent Biocompression BioPants

Low Level Laser

I use the LTU-904 Riancorp laser to help release scar tissue, fibrosis and in areas that are too sore to be touched.

The LTU-904 is an infrared laser operating at a wavelength of 904 nanometers (nm). The invisible wavelength penetrates deeply into tissue, where it is absorbed by cells and converted into energy that influences the course of metabolic processes.

Research has shown the following benefits:

• Fast softening of fibrotic tissue
• Volume reduction over time – maintaining or improving after treatment has stopped
• Improvement in skin texture and thickness
• Lasting benefit and continuing improvement

The hand-held LTU 904 laser

D.O.T. Electrostatic Oscillation Therapy

I have recently invested in the D.O.T. Electrostatic Oscillation Therapy machine from Medi-Rent.

The DOT is a non-invasive treatment method that delivers a range of therapeutic benefits via electrostatic oscillation. It works by generating an electrostatic field between the applicator – or the therapist’s hands – and the patient’s tissue. This interaction creates a gentle, pulsating kneading effect known as deep oscillation.

D.O.T. is helpful for:

• Lymphoedema
• Lipoedema
• Scar care
• Fibrosis
• Pain
• Musculo-skeletal issues – sprains, strains
• Pre and post surgery
• Wound care
• Sports recovery

Lipoedema

I also use MLD to treat Lipoedema, a commonly misdiagnosed condition affecting up to 11% of the female population (exact figures are unknown).

Lipoedema mainly affects the legs but can affect the arms and abdomen as well (or any part of the body).  It was thought to be just a painful fat syndrome but the latest research suggests it is also a connective tissue disease and often has multiple co-morbidities.

Symptoms include:

• Excess fat in both legs (sometimes the arms) disproportionate to the rest of the body;
• The waist may be small in proportion to thighs, buttocks and legs;
• Distinct cuff at ankle or wrist;
• Affected areas are sensitive to touch and may feel cold;
• Affected areas bruise easily with minimal trauma;
• Symptoms may become worse in hot weather;
• Sensation of heaviness, swelling, aching or discomfort in affected areas;
• Difficulty losing weight from affected areas despite exercise, modified diet or bariatric surgery;
• Skin can have a cellulite like appearance;
• Fat pads around knees;
• Joint hypermobility;
• Pain during or after exercise or standing for periods;
• Spider veins, varicose veins or other skin colour changes;
• Dizziness upon standing or when standing for long periods;
• Compromised mobility;
• Abnormal nerve sensations;
• Lymphoedema may be present;
• Texture of fatty tissue feels different;
• Pain on blood pressure check;
• Relatives with similar body shape or fat distribution;

Lipoedema seems to be triggered by hormonal changes, ie, puberty, pregnancy or menopause or periods of extreme stress.

A healthy, anti-inflammatory way of eating seems to help with pain and inflammation levels but the shape and size of the affected limb doesn’t alter significantly.

Please be aware that I am unable to diagnose lipoedema but can advise on a treatment plan.

For more information go to Lipoedema Australia.

Lisa talking at the 2024 Lipoedema Conference in Melbourne

Watch me being interviewed on The Lipoedema Podcast in February 2025

To read more about what to expect in an Initial Consultation with me please read my blog post here. I have written numerous blog posts about Lipoedema, including topics such as surgery, conservative care and getting a new diagnosis.

If you are not in Sydney and would like to discuss your Lipoedema, I offer online appointments where we can discuss all aspects of Lipoedema treatment.

Navigating Lipoedema With Confidence

I have created Navigating Lipoedema With Confidence as a pathway to feeling empowered and in control of your lipoedema transformation. 

Over four impactful weeks, you’ll gain the tools, knowledge, and support to confidently manage every stage—from understanding your diagnosis to thriving after surgery. 

The next round starts on Monday 13th October 2025, click here to sign up.

60 minute Manual Lymphatic Sessions cost $145 and are eligible for HICAPS rebate, falling under the Remedial Massage code. 90 minute sessions cost $175.

Book Now