Lymphatic Drainage Massage Online Class
Learn the specialized skills of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) with our comprehensive online course. Whether you are a massage therapist looking to expand your practice or a healthcare professional seeking to improve patient outcomes, this course provides the anatomical knowledge and hands-on techniques required to master this gentle, powerful modality.
Course Overview: The Science of Fluid Dynamics
Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a profound technique focused on the body’s “second circulatory system.” Unlike traditional massage that targets muscle tissue, MLD uses light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the movement of lymph fluids, which helps to remove toxins, reduce edema, and bolster the immune system. You will explore the delicate balance of the interstitial space and learn how to move fluid effectively through the superficial and deep lymphatic pathways.
What You Will Learn
- Identify the major lymph nodes and drainage pathways throughout the body.
- Understand the indications and contraindications for MLD to ensure client safety.
- Apply specific protocols for the face, neck, torso, and extremities.
- Integrate lymphatic drainage into post-surgical recovery and wellness treatments.
Course Details & Learning Materials
- 90 Minutes of High-Definition Video: Clear, narrated demonstrations of over 60 specific techniques.
- 37-Page Digital Manual: A comprehensive reference guide featuring detailed anatomy diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
- Certification of Completion: Perfect for displaying in your office or submitting for professional development.
- Lifetime Access: Review the techniques whenever you need a refresher.
Lymphatic Drainage Learning Hub: Deep Dive Resources
As part of our commitment to massage education, explore these in-depth articles to supplement your learning:
What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage? — Learn the fundamental principles of MLD and the immune system.
Lymphatic Drainage Techniques Guide — A deep dive into specific strokes like stationary circles and pump techniques.
Integrating MLD into Wellness Massage — Learn how to combine lymphatic clearing with Swedish protocols.
Meet your Instructor:
Sean Riehl is the founder of Real Bodywork and a leading expert in massage therapy and bodywork education. A pioneer in clinical instruction, Sean began teaching massage in 1991, and has authored numerous textbooks and produced over 30 instructional videos used by massage schools and practitioners worldwide.
Beyond his clinical and educational work, Sean has been a driving force in the wellness industry’s growth. In 2022, he was a founding member of iFlex Stretch Studios, a premier assisted stretching franchise. Following the acquisition of iFlex by the founders of StretchLab in late 2024, Sean served as the Vice President of Training through 2025. In this role, he worked closely with the executive team to elevate training standards and curriculum for hundreds of practitioners before retiring from the position at the end of the year to focus on his educational legacy.
Lessons
CERTIFICATE AND CEU INFO- Lymphatic
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Please view to learn about our courses. Questions answered: How long will you have access to this course? Is it the same as the dvds? Are there CEUs included? Do I have to take a test? Can I download the content? Is my interenet connection fast enough?
Lesson 1. Anatomy of the Lymphatic system (and download manual)
Download the 37 page manual in this lesson. Then learn about the anatomy of the lymphatic system, lymph nodes function, the ingredients of lymph, how the lymphatic vessels move the lymph and how to get the lymph flowing yourself.
Lesson 2. Lymph nodes and drainage patterns
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This lesson covers the location of the lymph nodes, as well as the watershed and lymphatomes. Also included are the causes of edema and what it is. This lesson also includes a lymph chart that shows the drainage patterns.
Lesson 3. Lymphatic drainage Technique
This lesson demonstrates the basics of lymphatic drainage massage technique. This includes using correct rhythm, sequence, direction and pressure. The main stroke is the J stroke, and this lesson shows how to do it.
Lesson 4. Face and neck
This lesson demonstrates lymphatic drainage massage to the face and neck. These techniques are useful for removing puffiness in the face or under the eyes. The techniques are performed with the client supine, and the work starts at the lower neck and moves up, draining the pathways as you progress.
Lesson 5. Arm and torso
This lesson demonstrates how to perform lymphatic work to the arm and chest. This is vital work for anyone who has had lymph nodes removed from the armpit (perhaps from a mastectomy), and has edema (swelling) in the arm or hand. These techniques are incredibly powerful and safe for this condition.
Lesson 6. Belly and Leg
This lesson demonstrates lymphatic work to the belly and leg. All of the lymph from the legs drains into the inguinal nodes, and then deep into the belly. The techniques in this lesson show how to drain the lymph first from the belly, then move down and drain the legs. This is useful for people who have edema (swelling) in their ankles.
Lesson 7. Self face lymphatic massage
This lesson demonstrates how to perform lymphatic drainage to your face and neck. Working on yourself is a great way to experience the affect of lymphatic drainage massage. You will be able to feel the lymph increasing it’s flow, and visibly see the puffiness reduced from your face. Great to practice first thing in the morning.
Lesson 8. Interview and review
This lesson incorporates a review of the techniques of lymphatic drainage. It also includes a great interview with Alan Mills, who is a prominent lymphatic drainage therapist. The mixing of his wisdom and Sean’s, gives the viewer a great perspective on lymphatic work.