LYMPHATIC CARE IN AUSTIN
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), often referred to as lymphatic drainage massage, is a gentle, hands-on approach that supports the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. Lymphatic work is at the heart of what we do at Align Massage + Lymphatics.
Our approach is rooted in extensive training, curiosity, and respect for the interconnected nature of the body. Rather than forcing change, we listen with our hands and let the physiology in front of us help guide the work. The result is thoughtful, individualized care designed to support not just how you feel on the table, but how you understand and care for your body beyond it.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
The lymphatic system is an essential part of the body's fluid balance and immune function. It collects and transports excess fluid, proteins, cellular debris, and metabolic waste from the tissues, helping maintain the environment surrounding our cells.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses gentle, rhythmic, hands-on techniques to encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid. Unlike traditional massage, lymphatic work doesn't rely on deep pressure to be effective. Many of the lymphatic structures we can influence manually sit close to the surface, making thoughtful, precise touch an important part of the work.
Our therapists have extensive training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage, including the Vodder Method. That training provides an important foundation, but we also rely on anatomical knowledge, palpation, observation, curiosity, and the body's response to guide our work.
Gentle Is Powerful
Lymphatic work doesn't have to hurt to work.
More pressure isn't always better. Many of the lymphatic structures we can influence manually sit close to the surface, which means effective lymphatic work can feel surprisingly light, slow, and subtle.
At Align, we don't believe in forcing change. We listen with our hands, work with the physiology in front of us, and allow the body to help guide the pace of the session. Thoughtful, responsive care can be powerful without being aggressive.
EVERY BODY IS DIFFERENT
Who Might Benefit From Lymphatic Drainage?
People seek lymphatic care for many different reasons. Some are navigating persistent swelling or complex health circumstances, while others simply feel like their bodies could use more support. Here are a few of the reasons people find their way to lymphatic care:
Puffiness + Fluid Retention
For swelling, puffiness, bloating, fluid retention, or conditions such as lymphedema.
Stress + Complex Health Circumstances
Puffiness + Fluid Retention
Gentle support when your system is already managing a lot.
Gentle Whole Body Support
For those looking for a gentle approach to supporting the body's fluid movement and overall wellbeing.
Heaviness + Congestion
For times when your body feels heavy, sluggish, congested or "stuck".
Limited Movement
For periods of prolonged sitting, standing, or otherwise limited movement.
Understanding Your Body
For those who want to better understand their body and learn simple ways to support it between sessions.
Navigating Surgery?
Specialized Support Before + After Surgery
Lymphatic care can play a supportive role both before and after surgery, with different considerations depending on where you are in the process.
YOUR FIRST VISIT
What To Expect From Your Lymphatic Session
No two bodies are alike, and no two sessions should be either. Your first visit is shaped around you - what brings you in, what you’re experiencing, and what you hope to get from your time with us.
01
Before
We’ll begin with a thoughtful intake and conversation about your health history, current concerns, and goals for the session. This helps your therapist understand where you are and how best to support you.
02
During
Gentle, rhythmic hands-on care shaped around you. Turn inward and settle into the experience, or ask questions and learn along the way.
03
After
Reconnect around what your therapist observed and leave with individualized self-care recommendations and resources for between sessions.
MORE THAN A SESSION
Care Beyond The Table
Your body comes with you when you leave the table. We think your care should, too.
Part of our work is helping you better understand how fluid moves through your body, how your nervous system and fascia influence that flow, and simple ways to invite more ease and movement into your everyday life.
At your first visit, you’ll receive a swag bag with educational materials, a fascia release tool, stickers, and a hydration packet. We’ll also share simple, sustainable "lymph snacks”: small practices rooted in science, guided by soul, and easy to weave into your day-to-day life.
Our goal is for you to need us less.
WHAT WE DO
Advanced Lymphatic Care In Austin
Our therapists bring extensive training in lymphatic drainage and a deep curiosity about how the body works as a whole. Our team's education includes the Vodder Method, myofascial techniques, post-surgical care, abdominal work, and other specialized approaches.
But training is only part of good care. We value thoughtful observation, skilled touch, critical thinking, and the humility to keep asking questions - including knowing when to adapt, when to say “I don’t know,”, when to look deeper, and when your care may benefit from the trusted network of practitioners we collaborate with.
Advanced Training
Our team includes Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs) with extensive training in lymphatic drainage, including the Vodder Method, alongside myofascial and complementary approaches.
Complex Experience
Experience supporting a wide range of people—from general lymphatic wellness to chronic and complex circumstances.
Thoughtful Care
Observation, palpation, anatomy, intuition, and your body's response all help inform the work.
Always Learning
Continuing education, critical thinking, and the exchange of ideas are built into how our team works.
COMMON QUESTIONS