Lymphatic Drainage Physiotherapy on the
Lower North Shore
Lymphatic drainage physiotherapy is a gentle, evidence-based treatment that supports your body's natural drainage system to reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and promote healing. At Urban Physiotherapy, our experienced physiotherapists use manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) techniques to help clients across the Lower North Shore — including North Sydney, Neutral Bay, Cremorne, Mosman, Crows Nest, and St Leonards — recover from surgery, injury, and conditions affecting the lymphatic system, so they can get back to doing the things they love.
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Private Health Fund Rebates Available. HICAPS On Site
Who Can Benefit from Lymphatic Drainage Physiotherapy?
Post-surgical swelling (including after breast, orthopaedic, or cosmetic surgery)
Lymphoedema (primary or secondary)
Post-traumatic swelling following injury
Chronic venous insufficiency
Fluid retention related to inactivity or prolonged immobility
General swelling and heaviness in the limbs
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We work with clients experiencing a range of conditions, including:
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised, light-touch massage technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid through the body. Unlike deep tissue massage, MLD uses gentle, rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of your lymphatic pathways, helping to move excess fluid away from swollen areas and toward healthy lymph nodes where it can be processed and drained.
This technique is particularly useful when the lymphatic system isn't working as efficiently as it should, whether due to surgery, injury, illness, or a condition such as lymphoedema.
What to Expect During Treatment
Assessment: Your physiotherapist will begin with a thorough assessment of your swelling, medical history, and any relevant scans or surgical notes to confirm lymphatic drainage is appropriate for you.
Treatment: Using gentle, rhythmic hand movements, your physiotherapist will guide lymph fluid away from the affected area and toward working lymph nodes, encouraging your body to reabsorb and clear the excess fluid.
Sensation: Manual lymphatic drainage is light and relaxing rather than firm or painful. Most clients find it comfortable, and some describe it as calming.
Duration: Sessions typically run for 30–45 minutes, depending on the areas being treated and the stage of your recovery.
Aftercare: Your physiotherapist may recommend compression garments, specific exercises, or self-massage techniques to support the results between sessions. Most people return to normal activity straight after treatment.
Why Choose Urban Physiotherapy for Lymphatic Drainage?
Experienced physiotherapists trained in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) techniques
Evidence-based rehabilitation approach, not just a standalone massage technique
Treatment plans tailored to your specific diagnosis and recovery goals
Conveniently located North Sydney clinic, serving clients across the Lower North Shore
Can be integrated with other services — post-surgical rehabilitation, exercise programs, and compression management advice
Ongoing support between sessions, including self-management and garment guidance where relevant