Gentle, specialized care to support your body’s healing process
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic bodywork technique that encourages lymphatic flow and supports fluid movement through the body. At Embodied Healing Center in Melbourne, Florida, Barbi Verhaeghe, LMT, CLT, provides personalized MLD for post-operative recovery, lymphedema and lipedema support, post-injury rehabilitation, and overall wellness.
Each session is tailored to your needs, your medical history, and your stage of healing. The goal is to provide calm, supportive care that helps you feel more comfortable and connected with your body.
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What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a light-touch technique that uses specific, intentional movements to encourage lymphatic flow. Unlike deep-tissue massage or aggressive body contouring, MLD is gentle and focused on supporting the lymphatic system.
Your session may provide comfort, reduce the feeling of fluid heaviness, and promote relaxation. Treatment is always adapted to your individual needs and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.
How Manual Lymphatic Drainage may support you
MLD may be appropriate for clients seeking support with:
- Post-operative swelling and recovery
- Lymphedema management
- Lipedema-related discomfort and heaviness
- Post-mastectomy support
- Recovery after injury, when appropriate
- A feeling of fluid retention or heaviness
- General wellness and relaxation
Your needs will be discussed before treatment so that the session can be planned safely and appropriately.
Post-operative Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Early, qualified support can be an important part of post-operative recovery for some clients. Manual Lymphatic Drainage may help support comfort, fluid movement, and recovery after certain procedures.
Services may begin 24–72 hours after surgery when appropriate, but you must have clearance from your surgeon or medical provider before beginning post-operative MLD. Please bring any relevant instructions from your surgical team to your appointment.
For clients who are unable to travel, mobile post-operative MLD may be available. Mobile appointments have a one-hour minimum and are subject to availability and treatment-area considerations.
Lymphedema and lipedema support
Barbi is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and provides supportive care for clients managing lymphedema and lipedema. Treatment may be part of a broader care plan and can include education, hands-on work, and recommendations for coordinating with your medical providers.
Every client is different. A consultation helps determine whether MLD is appropriate for your goals and how it can fit alongside your existing care.
What to expect during your first session
Before your session
We will discuss your goals, relevant health history, recent procedures or injuries, and any instructions from your physician or surgeon. Wear comfortable clothing and bring medical-clearance information when applicable.
During your session
MLD uses slow, gentle, rhythmic movements. Your treatment plan may focus on specific areas or follow a broader sequence based on your needs. The pressure is intentionally light and should not feel like deep-tissue massage.
After your session
You may feel deeply relaxed after treatment. Follow any aftercare guidance provided during your appointment, stay attentive to your body, and contact your medical provider with questions about your surgical or medical recovery.
Why work with Barbi?
Barbi Verhaeghe, LMT, CLT, brings together specialized lymphatic training, massage-therapy education, and three decades of clinical experience as a CT Technologist. Her background in anatomy, medical environments, and patient care informs a thoughtful approach to Manual Lymphatic Drainage and therapeutic bodywork.
She is trained in Vodder Technique Manual Lymphatic Drainage and has completed Certified Lymphedema Therapist training through ACOLS. Her work is centered on careful listening, individualized treatment, and helping clients feel supported throughout their healing process.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage painful?
MLD is generally performed with light, gentle pressure and should not feel like deep-tissue massage. Your comfort matters, so let Barbi know if anything feels uncomfortable during treatment.
How soon after surgery can I receive Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Some clients may begin treatment 24–72 hours after surgery, but timing depends on the procedure and your individual medical situation. You must receive clearance from your surgeon or medical provider before beginning post-operative MLD.
Do I need a doctor’s clearance?
Medical clearance is required for post-operative MLD and may be recommended for other health conditions. If you are unsure whether treatment is appropriate, consult your physician and share their instructions before your appointment.
Can Manual Lymphatic Drainage help with lymphedema?
MLD may be included as part of a broader lymphedema-management plan. Barbi is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and can discuss your needs, current care, and whether a session is appropriate for you. MLD does not replace medical care.
Can you help clients with lipedema?
Barbi provides supportive care for clients living with lipedema. Treatment is individualized and may focus on comfort, heaviness, and support alongside your existing medical care.
Is MLD the same as a deep-tissue massage?
No. MLD uses gentle, rhythmic movements that are different from the firm pressure used in many deep-tissue or corrective massage sessions. The approach is focused on supporting lymphatic flow rather than working deeply into muscle tissue.
Do you offer mobile Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Mobile service may be available for acute post-operative MLD, depending on location, availability, and your treatment needs. A one-hour minimum applies, and surgeon or medical-provider clearance is required after surgery.
Where are appointments located?
Appointments are available at Embodied Healing Center, 930 South Harbor City Blvd #502, Melbourne, Florida 32901. Contact Barbi to discuss appointment availability and whether mobile service may be appropriate.
How do I schedule a session?
Use the booking button below or contact Barbi at 321.341.9694 to discuss your needs and schedule a consultation or appointment.
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Important health information
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is supportive bodywork and does not diagnose, cure, or replace treatment for a medical condition. If you have recently had surgery, have an active medical condition, or are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for you, consult your physician or surgeon before booking.
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Or call or text 321.341.9694 to learn more.