Manual Lymphatic Drainage with Robyn Lancaster, RMT

Robyn Lancaster, RMT has recently completed training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) through the Vodder International Institute, adding to her prior education in lymphatic work from the Chikly Institute. She has also completed training in oncology massage and scar tissue treatment, giving her the skills to support clients across a wide range of post-surgical and fluid-related care needs.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very gentle, light-touch technique that uses rhythmic, precise hand movements to encourage the natural flow of lymph fluid through the body’s lymphatic vessels. It doesn’t use deep pressure like traditional massage — instead, it works superficially on the skin to help move fluid away from areas of congestion toward healthy drainage pathways. This gentle approach can be deeply calming and supportive during recovery or when managing swelling.

Who Can Benefit?

Robyn now offers MLD for people experiencing:

• Lymphedema and chronic swelling, including fluid buildup after treatment or injury.

• Post-surgical edema, including after breast surgery (e.g., mastectomy, reconstruction), gender-affirming transition surgeries, joint or abdominal procedures, and other medical operations.

• Traumatic injury-related edema, where swelling persists long after the initial event.

• Oncology-related concerns, such as discomfort or swelling linked to cancer treatments or lymph node removal.

• Support during recovery phases to help reduce fluid buildup, support tissue healing, and improve comfort and mobility.

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage can contribute to:

• Reduction of swelling and fluid retention

• Improved lymph flow and circulation

• Softening of tight or hardened tissues

• Enhanced comfort and mobility during recovery

• Support for immune function and tissue healing

• A soothing, relaxing experience that many clients find emotionally restorative as well as physically supportive.

Understanding Lymphedema and Breast Cancer in Canada

Lymphedema is a chronic swelling condition that can occur when lymph nodes or vessels are damaged or removed. In Canada, lymphedema may develop after cancer treatments that involve lymph node removal or radiation. Estimates suggest a significant portion of post-breast cancer patients (up to about 30%) may experience lymphedema following surgeries that affect lymphatic drainage.

Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada. In recent national estimates, approximately 31,900 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in a given year, representing a substantial portion of new cancer cases across the country. About 1 in 8 women in Canada will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Additionally, advances in early detection and treatment mean many people live five years or more after a diagnosis.

Because breast surgery, including mastectomy, reconstruction, sentinel lymph node biopsies or axillary dissections, can affect lymphatic flow, early and appropriate care for swelling and fluid imbalance is increasingly recognized as an important part of recovery for many patients.

Ready to Support Your Recovery

Whether you’re managing swelling related to surgery, injury, cancer care, or other concerns, Robyn Lancaster, RMT, is now able to offer Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatments tailored to your needs.

To book an appointment or learn more, please reach out. We can help you determine the best approach and schedule sessions that support your healing journey.