Client Safety

Suitability &
Contraindications

Lymphatic Drainage

Manual & Brazilian · Suitability

Your safety is always our priority. Before any treatment, a consultation will be carried out to ensure that Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) or Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage (BLD) is safe and appropriate for you. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone — in some cases, treatment may need to be postponed, modified, or avoided altogether.

You may not be suitable for treatment if you have

Active infection or fever

MLD and BLD stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid. If you have an active infection, cold, flu, or fever, treatment could potentially encourage the spread of the infection throughout the body. Please wait until you have fully recovered.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or suspected blood clot

Massage techniques should never be performed if you have a known or suspected blood clot, as there is a risk of dislodging the clot, which could lead to serious complications.

Uncontrolled heart failure or severe cardiac conditions

Because lymphatic drainage increases the return of fluid to the bloodstream, it can place additional strain on the heart. Medical clearance may be required before treatment.

Kidney failure or severe kidney disease

The kidneys help process excess fluid moved during treatment. If kidney function is significantly impaired, lymphatic drainage may not be appropriate without medical approval.

Active cancer (unless advised by your medical team)

If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment or have active cancer, you should only receive lymphatic drainage with approval from your consultant or healthcare provider. Specialist oncology-trained therapists may be required for certain conditions.

Severe liver disease

As the liver plays an important role in processing waste products, certain liver conditions may make treatment unsuitable.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure

If your blood pressure is not well managed, treatment may need to be postponed until it is under control.

Certain skin conditions

Treatment cannot be performed over areas with contagious skin infections, open wounds, severe inflammation, or untreated rashes, as this could worsen symptoms or increase the risk of infection.

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage is a more dynamic and sculpting-focused treatment than traditional Manual Lymphatic Drainage. While it follows the lymphatic system, it also incorporates firmer techniques to contour the body. For this reason, BLD may not be suitable if you:

·Bruise very easily.
·Have significant varicose veins in the treatment area.
·Have acute inflammation or injury.
·Have recently had cosmetic surgery without clearance from your surgeon.
·Have medical conditions where firmer massage is not advised.

Conditions That May Require Medical Clearance

Please let us know if you have any of the following, as medical clearance may be required:

·Diabetes with complications
·Recent surgery (unless your surgeon has recommended lymphatic drainage)
·Autoimmune conditions during a flare-up
·Chronic kidney disease
·Heart disease
·Lymphoedema requiring specialist management
·Pregnancy (particularly during the first trimester or if you have any pregnancy complications)

Please Tell Us Before Your Appointment

For your safety, please inform us if you:

·Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
·Have recently had surgery or cosmetic procedures.
·Are taking blood-thinning medication.
·Have a pacemaker or implanted medical device.
·Have any ongoing medical conditions or are under the care of a specialist.
·Have recently been diagnosed with a new medical condition.

Your therapist will complete a confidential health consultation before treatment. If there is any doubt about whether treatment is appropriate, we may ask you to obtain written approval from your GP or consultant before proceeding.

Our aim is always to provide treatments that are safe, effective, and tailored to your individual health needs.

Questions about your suitability?

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Suitability &Contraindications