A Comprehensive Guide to Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) - 10/24/2026

Course Overview
This is a 4-credit-hour course designed to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of manual lymphatic drainage. The course will cover the anatomy, history, medical uses, and cosmetic applications of this technique. It will also include demonstration videos to guide you through basic techniques that you can apply in both medical and cosmetic settings. Upon completing this course, you will feel confident in performing manual lymphatic drainage massage, equipped with knowledge of its origins, physiology, and techniques.

Learning Outcomes 
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:

• Assess the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system, including its structures, functions, and relationship to other body systems.
• Analyze contraindications and cautions for MLD therapy, including when to modify techniques or refer clients to medical professionals.
• Compare between the major MLD methods and their historical development.
• Assess common pathologies affecting the lymphatic system, including lymphedema, lymphadenitis, and cancer-related conditions.
• Analyze proper MLD techniques, including effleurage wave, static circle, dynamic static circle, pump stroke, and scoop stroke with appropriate pressure and rhythm.
• Produce a complete MLD protocol following the proper sequence from clearing the terminus through the full body treatment.
• Apply MLD techniques to support clients’ return to meaningful daily occupations through both medical applications and cosmetic applications.
• Integrate interventions such as diaphragmatic breathing, gua sha, and dry brushing into MLD treatments.
• Apply appropriate treatment plans for clients with specific conditions, as demonstrated in the case study approach.

About the Author/Presenter 
Claudia Phillips has been a licensed massage therapist (LMT) and registered yoga teacher for 10 years, having graduated from Pacific College of Health and Science NY with an associate’s degree in massage therapy. After leaving school with over 1,500 hours of education, she began working under the mentorship of some incredible therapists to specialize in prenatal and postpartum massage. It was during her time working with these populations that she discovered the importance of lymphatic drainage massage and began her tutelage in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Over the past decade, MLD has found its place in her practice in medical, private, and spa settings. In addition to her practice as an LMT, it has also been important to include MLD in the continuing education courses she has published throughout the past several years. Claudia is a believer in balance between Western and Eastern medicine, as well as the medical and cosmetic sides of this profession. Those beliefs are echoed throughout this course to provide a comprehensive and holistic view of this incredible modality.

Audience/Accreditations and Approvals 
Colibri Healthcare 
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details): 
Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy

If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us