Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Specialist service: MLD Dublin
Emma Beaver, Chartered Physiotherapist is a Dublin based specialist in Manual Lymphatic Drainage .
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a subcutaneous form of massage therapy which is specific to treating and supporting the lymphatic system.
Emma Beaver (BSc Physio) is a CORU State Registered and Chartered Physiotherapist, who is also a fully certified Level 3 practitioner in the Dr Vodder Method of MLD which is recognised as a medical grade of lymphatic drainage and the certification of choice for healthcare professionals. The technique involves a carefully applied sequence of hand movements that follow the natural pathways of lymphatic drainage, promoting the flow of lymph fluid from an area of injury or retention, and aiding in the removal of waste and toxins from the body. Detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the lymphatic system is a crucial part of the efficacy of MLD treatment.
Emma's physiotherapy degree and experience, combined with her extensive postgraduate training in MLD, establishes her as an expert in this field in Dublin.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Gentle, rhythmic manual therapy designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, improve fluid movement, support immune health, calm the nervous system, and promote overall wellbeing.
How Does MLD Work?
Stimulates lymph vessels
Removes excess fluid, waste, and toxins
Supports tissue repair and immune function
Activates the parasympathetic (“rest & digest”) nervous system
Core Benefits of MLD
Improved lymphatic drainage
Enhanced immune response
Pain & inflammation reduction
Stress reduction &deep relaxation
Is MLD Suitable for You?
MLD Can Help
Lymphoedema
Chronic Oedema / Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Wellness & Chronic Pain
Lipoedema (LIPO)
Cosmetic Surgery / Post-Surgical Swelling
Chronic Sinusitis
Scroll down → Learn how MLD works + pricing → book
Lymphoedema Treatment (Specialist Care)
30 minute Initial Assessment (€80)
Medical history & screening
Limb measurements
Treatment planning to decipher what phase of intervention is required:
Intensive Phase (DLT)
MLD: 2–3x/week (2–4 weeks)
Compression bandaging
Exercise & skincare education
Maintenance Phase
Compression garments
Occasional MLD (every ~6 months)
Ongoing self-management
Costs
Single sessions (60 mins): €150
Course of 6 sessions: €850
Chronic Oedema / Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic oedema: swelling lasting over 3 months, often with multiple causes
Common causes include reduced mobility, venous insufficiency (CVI), heart failure, obesity, and lymphoedema
CVI risk factors include DVT and prolonged sitting or standing
Assessment first: ultrasound and GP/medical clearance prior to commencing MLD
Effective management includes treating underlying causes, compression therapy, oedema control, MLD and exercise
30 minute Initial Assessment (€80)
Medical history & screening
Limb measurements
Treatment planning
Costs
Single sessions (60 mins): €150
Course of 6 sessions: €850
Wellness & Chronic Pain
Promotes parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system activity
How does this affect well-being or individuals with Chronic Pain:
Encourages deep relaxation, stress reduction, and overall wellbeing
Supports lymphatic circulation, immune function, and tissue repair
Helps reduce inflammation, fluid retention, muscle tension, and pain
May improve sleep, anxiety levels, and emotional balance
Beneficial for chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia.
A gentle, non-invasive therapy that supports a holistic body–mind approach to health and recovery.
Single sessions (60 mins): €150
Course of 6 sessions: €850
Lipoedema (LIPO)
Lipoedema is a chronic condition causing disproportionate fat buildup, pain, and tenderness
Primarily affects women, commonly involving the legs, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes arms
Hands and feet are usually unaffected
Can impact mobility, daily activities, and emotional wellbeing
Symptom Management
MLD and compression garments can help:
Reduce swelling and tissue congestion
Ease pain and tenderness
Support lymphatic function
Improve comfort and mobility
Additional Challenges
May be associated with overweight/obesity, reduced activity, and mental health challenges
30 minute Initial Assessment (€80)
Medical history & screening
Limb measurements
Treatment planning
Costs
Single sessions (60 mins): €150
Course of 6 sessions: €850
Cosmetic Surgery / Post-Surgical Swelling
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is widely used to support recovery after liposuction/ cosmetic surgery
Recommended before and after surgery to optimise lymphatic function and healing:
Pre-surgery: 1–2 MLD sessions to prepare tissues
Post-VASER: first MLD session at 48 hours post-surgery
Other procedures: MLD can begin immediately post-surgery
Recovery phase: 4–6 sessions recommended within the first 2 weeks
30 minute Initial Assessment (€80)
Medical history & screening
Limb measurements
Treatment planning
Costs
Single sessions (60 mins): €150
Course of 6 sessions: €850
Chronic Sinusitis
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) gently stimulates lymph flow in the face, head, and neck
Encourages natural sinus drainage and reduces congestion, pressure, and inflammation
May relieve sinus headaches, improve breathing, and reduce heaviness or fullness
Supports immune function and promotes relaxation and overall wellbeing
A gentle complementary therapy, not a standalone cure
A course of treatment would be recommend to optimise outcome.
When MLD Is Not Suitable
Not recommended during an acute sinus infection
Costs
Single sessions (45 mins): €120
What is the cost of treatment?
Lymphoedema treatment is a postgraduate specialist qualification for a physiotherapist. Combining physiotherapy knowledge with lymphoedema care ensures the highest standards of care at every visit.
Lymphoedema is best treated with a course of treatment and we offer a package deal of 6 sessions for €850.
The fee for the initial consultation is €80 for the first visit as indicated above, and €150 for follow up sessions with the session duration being 60 mins.
Will my treatment be covered by my health insurance?
Most health insurers in Ireland provide rebates for both Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Physiotherapy. Please check with your insurer for specific guidance on your own health plan.
