Lymphatic Massage Training for Massage Therapists

What It Is, Who It’s For, and How It Fits Into Your Practice

Lymphatic massage is often misunderstood and in my opinion, gets marked as a "boring" technique (especially by massage therapists who were never taught how to apply it beyond a brief classroom overview). In reality, it is a distinct technique with its own rhythm, purpose, and clinical relevance.

Over the years I had noticed gaps in learning when it came to this area, and that's when the course "Lymphatic Massage Foundations" was born. 

Below, I explain scope of practice, advanced training options, who should learn lymphatic massage, and the two class training options offered by Breakthrough Massage Academy. 

What Lymphatic Massage Really Is

Lymphatic massage is not like deep tissue or therapeutic massage.

It is:

• Rhythmic
• Sequence-based
• Designed to follow the direction of lymphatic flow

The pressure used is intentionally light and typically no more than the weight of a nickel on the skin (about 5 grams), because the lymphatic system is very delicate and located close to the skin's surface.

This style uses Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) principles to facilitate lymph movement. We also distinguish how this differs from:

• Vodder Method, which uses structured sequences and light movements refined in medical settings

• Chikly Lymphatic Techniques, emphasizing subtler assessment and palpation skills

• Other Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) programs, which are advanced and medically oriented

• Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage trends, which focus more on aesthetic goals and differ significantly in intent, pressure, and technique

Understanding these differences helps therapists apply appropriate techniques based on client needs and avoid scope-of-practice errors.

How This Training Differs from Vodder, Chikly, and Certified Lymphedema Programs

Massage therapists in Canada often hear about lymphatic work through three main pathways: Vodder-based training, Chikly lymphatic techniques, and Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) programs.

It’s important to understand how they differ.

Vodder Method (Manual Lymphatic Drainage – MLD)

The Vodder method is one of the most widely recognized manual lymphatic drainage approaches. It uses structured hand movements, specific directional sequences, and light rhythmic pressure designed to stimulate superficial lymph flow.

Vodder training is often longer and more medically structured than introductory massage-based lymphatic courses. It may be appropriate for therapists seeking deeper specialization.

In this course, we discuss Vodder principles and ensure therapists understand the foundational mechanics behind MLD techniques — but this is not a full Vodder certification program.

Chikly Lymphatic Techniques

The Chikly approach emphasizes subtle palpation skills and refined assessment of lymphatic pathways. It is often described as highly intuitive and sensitive work.

While some therapists resonate with this style, it requires strong tactile awareness and extensive additional training.

In Lymphatic Massage Foundations, we focus on practical, clinically applicable techniques that massage therapists can confidently integrate into everyday treatment without requiring advanced specialization.

Other Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) Programs

Vodder, Chikly, and Other Certified Lymphedema Therapist programs are significantly more in-depth and medically oriented.

These programs typically include:

• Extensive hours (often 135+ hours of training)
• Complex decongestive therapy (CDT)
• Compression bandaging
• Post-surgical and oncology-specific protocols
• Medical collaboration

They are designed for therapists working directly with diagnosed lymphedema patients.

Breakthrough Massage Academy's "Lymphatic Massage Foundations" course is not a CLT certification.

However, it is an appropriate introduction for therapists who:

• Are considering CLT training
• Want foundational knowledge before committing financially
• Want clarity around scope of practice

We also discuss what is within an RMT’s scope and what requires referral.

That clarity prevents uncomfortable situations where a client requests advanced lymphatic work that falls outside your training.

Therapists and clients often ask about Brazilian lymphatic drainage. This trending aesthetic technique differs significantly from clinical manual lymphatic drainage. A full breakdown of the differences can be found here:

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage vs Clinical Lymphatic Massage: What Massage Therapists Need to Know

Who Should Take Lymphatic Massage Training

Massage therapists often under learn lymphatic work in school because anatomy and techniques are only briefly covered due to time or classroom restrictions. But lymphatic principles are foundational for anyone who works with:

• Circulatory or inflammatory issues
• Spa or relaxation modalities
• Deep tissue or therapeutic work
• Cupping therapy
• Stone therapy 
• Fascial work
• Pediatric or geriatric clients
• and more

In the past year alone, dozens of therapists have taken the Lymphatic Massage Foundations course from Breakthrough Massage Academy to increase confidence and accuracy in lymphatic work. This training is suitable for:

• New graduates
• Seasoned clinicians
• Therapists curious about advanced applications
• Wellness practitioners from other modalities

Anyone who wants to feel sure about lymphatic technique and scope is ready.

Certification Options and Format

Lymphatic Massage Foundations is offered as:

• A one-day interactive course
• And is available as a livestream course via Zoom or in person

A self study version is not currently being offered because mastering pressure and sequence requires real-time feedback.

Many therapists prefer the in-person classroom, but online training has proven effective and accessible for therapists from British Columbia to Ontario and the maritime provinces.

Upon completion, therapists receive a digital certificate immediately — whether online or in person.

How To Know When You’re Ready for This Training

You’re ready if you:

• Feel unsure about how lymphatic massage, or the lymph system, works
• Want more accuracy than school provided
• Get client questions you can’t confidently answer
• Want a solid foundation before pursuing CLT
• Want to prevent awkward client situations at the treatment table

Having a basic understanding of the body's anatomy is sufficient to begin. This course expands that knowledge into clinically useful application.

How This Fits Into Your Continuing Education

Lymphatic Massage Foundations is standalone, but it frequently overlaps with:

• Pediatric Massage
• Geriatric & Palliative Care Massage

Lymphatic Massage Foundations is approved for 5 continuing education units/credits with the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC). Check with your massage association if this course outline is supported if you are not with the NHPC. 

These areas will be part of a Massage Through Life Stages bundle in 2026, combining multiple certifications into a structured pathway.

Even alone, this course enhances understanding of all hands-on work from pressure control to circulatory relationships.

Ready to Learn? How to Register

To view upcoming live online or in person course dates, visit the course store:

👉 Lymphatic Massage Foundations

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience?
No. This course includes foundational theory, safety, and technique instruction.

Do online and in-person sessions provide the same certificate?
Yes, certification is issued upon completion regardless of format.

What supplies do I need?
A supply list is provided, model work is done in both the the livestream online course version and the in-person course. 

Is this the same as Certified Lymphedema Training?
No, CLT programs are more extensive and medically focused. We explain the differences and when to refer.

Can you travel to my clinic?
This course can be delivered privately with a minimum group size outside Lethbridge. Contact for details.