Réhabital
Manual Lymphatic Drainage: Swelling and Fluid Retention
Heavy legs at the end of the day, swollen ankles in summer heat or post-surgical puffiness often respond very well to manual lymphatic drainage. In Cote Saint Luc our massage therapists use the slow, superficial techniques this system actually requires.
Book an AppointmentUnderstanding This Condition
The lymphatic system carries interstitial fluid, proteins and cellular waste back into the bloodstream. Unlike blood, lymph has no central pump: it moves through muscle contraction, breathing and the pulsation of lymphatic vessels themselves. When that transport slows — immobility, heat, surgery, pregnancy, prolonged standing — fluid accumulates and creates heaviness and swelling. Manual lymphatic drainage uses very light pressure and a slow rhythm to stimulate superficial vessels, in a sequence that clears central nodes before treating the periphery.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes
Prolonged standing or sitting
Without the muscle pump, venous and lymphatic return slows.
Heat and summer weather
Vasodilation increases capillary filtration and therefore lymphatic load.
Surgery or trauma
Post-operative oedema lingers when local lymphatic pathways are disrupted.
Pregnancy and hormonal change
Abdominal pressure and hormones promote fluid retention.
Our Treatment Approach
Sessions start with assessment: medical history, contraindications, location and character of the swelling. We then open the node regions (neck, axilla, groin) before draining the target area with very light circular strokes. Diaphragmatic breathing is integrated, since it acts as a central pump for the thoracic duct. Osteopathy can complement by freeing the diaphragm and transition zones, while naturopathy addresses hydration, sodium intake and activity. We also teach self-drainage for home.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A session lasts 60 minutes and is deeply relaxing. A temporary increase in urination afterwards is normal. For established oedema, a closely spaced series works better than a single visit.
At-Home Self-Care Tips
- Elevate legs for 15 minutes at day’s end.
- Walk regularly to activate the calf pump.
- Drink enough water — restricting fluids worsens retention.
- Wear compression stockings if recommended.
- Practise diaphragmatic breathing a few minutes daily.
Prognosis & Recovery Timeline
Functional swelling from posture or heat often responds within the first sessions. Post-surgical oedema improves progressively over several weeks.
When to See Us at Réhabital
Come in for uncomfortable chronic swelling. Sudden one-sided leg swelling with pain, redness and warmth needs urgent medical assessment (possible thrombosis).
Why Réhabital Clinic
Our therapists follow a structured drainage sequence rather than a generic light massage, and coordinate with osteopathy when the diaphragm or abdomen restricts lymphatic return.
Recommended Services for This Condition
Our Core Treatments in Côte Saint-Luc
Related Conditions
Why Choose Réhabital?
Frequently Asked Questions
Address
D4-5800 Cavendish Blvd
Côte Saint-Luc, QC H4W 2T5
Phone
(438) 842-3550Hours
Mon–Fri: 10AM–8PM
Sun: 10AM–4PM
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