“The lymphatic system is the vehicle through which the immune system acts.”
― Matthew Wood, The Practice of Traditional Western Herbalism: Basic Doctrine, Energetics, and Classification
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Dallas is trained in the Vodder method of lymphatic drainage. Dr. Vodder and his wife developed the technique in the 1930’s, modern day research has shown that it is one of the most effective hands on lymphatic therapies.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique used to move lymphatic fluid from areas where it has accumulated, or where lymphatic dysfunction is present, to healthy areas and lymph nodes. The technique is very soothing, feels subtle, and can create dramatic results when paired with at home care.
Conditions such as lymphedema, lipedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and lingering symptoms of cancer treatments are the most common that MLD is applied to. Rheumatoid arthritis, dysautonomia, and chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) also respond well to Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
Go with the flow
Your first Manual Lymphatic Drainage session will be 90 minutes, the longer appointment time allows Dallas to do a full body assessment, discuss treatment plan options, care expectations, and to share more in depth information about the lymphatic system. Dallas prioritizes client education, especially with lymphatic therapies, as she believes the better we understand how our body works the easier it is to identify when we might need additional care and support, or to identify when our body is working as it should (good job body!).
Upon booking your first Manual Lymphatic Drainage session you will be prompted to complete an in depth health history form, which Dallas will review. Depending on the complexities of your case, and information provided, Dallas may call you prior to your appointment to gain a deeper understanding of your lymphatic needs. Sometimes, though not often, other health concerns must be addressed prior to MLD in order to support your body in a safe and effective manner. Over the years Dallas has cultivated a network of providers in Helena, and beyond, who she trusts to assist in more complex lymphatic cases.
Scrambling for answers
You do not need a diagnosis to benefit from Manual Lymphatic Drainage. If you feel as though you have ‘tried on’ various diagnoses with nothing quite fitting your experience, some lymphatic support could be beneficial. There is no easy fix, or one size fits all treatment, but sometimes trying a different approach can reveal more of the big picture.
Chronic illness can be mentally and emotionally taxing, as well as time consuming and financially demanding. Dallas has a deep desire to honor the time and money of all her clients, and she tries to factor in your budget and schedule when recommending a treatment plan.