Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Calgary: How It Can Help You Feel Better Now
If you're experiencing swelling, heaviness, or tenderness in your limbs—or managing a diagnosis of lymphedema—Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) may be one of the most powerful tools in your care plan.
MLD is a gentle, hands-on technique that supports your lymphatic system by helping to move fluid through congested areas. At Same Stars Wellness, it’s one of the core services we provide to both adults and children living with lymphedema or lymphatic dysfunction.
💧 What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Unlike traditional massage therapy, MLD uses light, rhythmic strokes designed to stimulate lymph vessels just beneath the skin. This helps:
Reduce swelling
Improve lymph flow
Support immune function
Ease discomfort and heaviness
Encourage tissue healing
It’s safe, non-invasive, and evidence-informed—and when done by a trained therapist, it can bring significant relief for people living with chronic swelling or lymphatic issues.
🌿 Who Can Benefit from MLD?
At Same Stars Wellness, we support patients at all stages of their lymphedema journey:
People waiting for care from Calgary’s Lymphedema Clinic (CALS)
Individuals managing lymphedema after cancer treatment or surgery
Those with congenital (primary) lymphedema
Patients with chronic inflammation or fluid retention
Children experiencing swelling, skin tightness, or limited mobility due to lymphatic concerns
🧒 Yes—Children Can Receive Lymphatic Drainage, Too
While lymphedema is less common in children, it’s far from unheard of—and it’s often overlooked. Kids can experience lymphatic swelling due to congenital conditions, cancer treatments, chronic illness, or even infections and trauma that affect the lymph system. And when it happens, it can deeply impact their movement, energy, and confidence.
At Same Stars Wellness, our therapists are trained in gentle lymphatic techniques that are safe for growing bodies and tailored to each child’s needs. Whether your child is navigating swelling after surgery, undergoing cancer care, or showing early signs of lymphatic dysfunction, we provide care that is:
Calming and non-invasive
Grounded in relationship and trust
Adaptable to age, attention span, and comfort level
Focused on long-term support and whole-family wellness
Appointments are always kid-friendly, flexible, and designed to meet your child—and your family—where you are.
💛 What to Expect in an MLD Appointment
A calm, accessible space with low-light options, cozy heated tables (optional!), and time to settle in
A full review of your health history, symptoms, and goals
Gentle manual lymph drainage techniques performed by a certified therapist
Education on compression, movement, and at-home strategies
Referrals to additional supports (including Alberta Lymphedema Association and AADL garment programs)
🌟 Why Choose Same Stars?
We’re not a spa. We’re not a one-size-fits-all clinic.
We’re a community hub for long-term, inclusive, and expert care—serving adults, kids, and families living with complex conditions. Our approach to lymphatic health is trauma-aware, collaborative, and grounded in real-life strategies.
We also offer mobile treatments for patients with mobility barriers, post-surgical recovery, or accessibility needs.
You don’t have to wait to feel better.
MLD is available now with our experienced team. Book your appointment or send us a message to see how we can support you or your child.
🔗 Helpful Local Links
Calgary Ambulatory Lymphedema Service (CALS)
Lymphatic Education & Research Network – Pediatric Info
