Lymphedema & Lipedema
Bow Valley Specialist
Only qualified Lymphedema therapist in Bow Valley. Lisa holds Dr. Vodder Method MLD certification and provides Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), lymphatic taping, advanced skin care, and post-surgical lymphedema management as part of a comprehensive protocol.
Home โบ Who We Help โบ Lymphedema & Lipedema
Two distinct conditions โ both requiring specialist care
Chronic accumulation of protein-rich lymphatic fluid causing swelling โ typically in one or more limbs. Can be primary (congenital) or secondary (post-cancer treatment, surgery, or infection). Without treatment, it progresses through increasingly fibrotic stages.
A chronic condition causing disproportionate fat accumulation in the legs (and sometimes arms), with tenderness, easy bruising, and pressure sensitivity. Distinct from obesity โ diet and exercise have limited effect. Often misdiagnosed for years.
Standard massage increases lymphatic load without directing it appropriately โ contraindicated for active lymphedema without specialist training. Dr. Vodder Method MLD uses precise, light, rhythmic sequences mapped to the lymphatic anatomy to move fluid safely.
What Lisa treats
Lymphedema and lipedema present in many forms โ across multiple body regions and stages.
Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) in the arm and hand โ the most common secondary lymphedema presentation. MLD and taping reduce volume and restore function.
Leg swelling from pelvic surgery, infection, or primary lymphatic insufficiency. CDT reduces volume, softens fibrotic tissue, and prevents progression.
Gentle MLD reduces pain sensitivity, decreases inflammatory burden, and improves drainage in lipedema-affected tissue. Not curative but clinically meaningful.
Non-lymphedema surgical swelling โ joint replacement, abdominoplasty, mastectomy, and post-surgical dental โ responds excellently to MLD even without a lymphedema diagnosis.
Gentle MLD reduces oedema-related discomfort and improves quality of life in palliative settings โ a compassionate, non-invasive support tool.
Compromised lymphatic tissue requires careful skin management. Lisa cross-links to advanced skin care protocols essential for long-term lymphedema management.
Common questions
Is MLD the same as a regular massage?
No. Manual Lymphatic Drainage uses very light, rhythmic, directional pressure following the lymphatic anatomy. Standard massage pressure can actually worsen lymphedema by increasing capillary filtration without enhancing lymphatic uptake. Dr. Vodder Method MLD requires specific training to deliver safely.
Do I need a physician referral for lymphedema treatment?
A referral is not required to book, but your physician should be informed of your lymphedema management plan. Some provincial health programs require a physician note for coverage of compression garments.
Can lipedema be cured with MLD?
MLD does not cure lipedema โ there is currently no cure. However, regular MLD significantly reduces pain, decreases the inflammatory burden in affected tissue, and improves drainage and quality of life. It is the primary conservative treatment for managing the condition.
What is Advanced Skin Care and why is it part of CDT?
Lymphedema causes skin changes that increase infection risk โ particularly cellulitis, which can worsen lymphedema dramatically. Advanced skin care protocols prevent breakdown, manage wounds, and maintain the skin barrier that healthy lymphatic function depends on.
Internationally recognised gold standard for lymphatic therapy.
Complete Decongestive Therapy โ MLD + compression + skin care + exercise.
The region’s only certified lymphatic therapy practitioner.
Decades of clinical lymphatic care.
Book securely via Jane App โ online or by phone
Available for all services.