Lipoedema, Lymphoedema & Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) on the Gold Coast

Lipoedema and lymphoedema are often confused, but they are different conditions with different causes and management needs.

For people living with swelling, heaviness or discomfort, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) may be recommended as one part of a broader management plan.

At The Good Joint in Mermaid Beach, Manual Lymphatic Drainage is available with experienced practitioners as part of our multidisciplinary allied health offering.

What Is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is swelling caused by a build-up of lymphatic fluid within the body's tissues when the lymphatic system isn't able to adequately drain fluid from an area.

It can affect different parts of the body and may occur for a variety of reasons, including following surgery or treatment that affects the lymphatic system.

Symptoms can vary between individuals but may include swelling, feelings of heaviness or tightness and changes in the affected area.

Because there are different causes of swelling, unexplained or new swelling should be appropriately assessed by a healthcare professional.

What Is Lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a chronic condition involving an abnormal distribution of fatty tissue, most commonly affecting the legs and sometimes the arms.

It primarily affects women and can be associated with tenderness, pain, heaviness and easy bruising.

Lipoedema isn't simply weight gain, and management can involve a combination of approaches depending on the individual and their symptoms.

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, or MLD, is a specialised, gentle massage technique designed to encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic system.

Unlike a traditional remedial or deep-tissue massage, MLD uses light, specific and rhythmic movements.

Depending on the individual, Manual Lymphatic Drainage may be incorporated into a broader management plan for lymphatic swelling or used when recommended by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

MLD for Lipoedema & Lymphoedema

Management of lipoedema and lymphoedema is individual and may involve more than one strategy.

Depending on the condition and individual circumstances, this can include movement, exercise, compression, skin care, medical management and other therapies.

MLD may form one component of this approach for some people, particularly when swelling or lymphatic function is being managed.

It is important that treatment is appropriate for your individual health circumstances, particularly following surgery or cancer treatment or when there has been a sudden or unexplained change in swelling.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast

If you're looking for Manual Lymphatic Drainage on the Gold Coast, MLD is available at The Good Joint in Mermaid Beach.

Our multidisciplinary clinic brings a range of allied health services together under one roof, allowing our practitioners to collaborate where appropriate.

Whether you're managing an existing lymphatic condition, have been recommended MLD by another healthcare professional or simply want to find out whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage may be appropriate for you, our team can help point you in the right direction.

Book Manual Lymphatic Drainage online with The Good Joint or contact our Mermaid Beach clinic to learn more.