Lymphatic Massage- Different levels of training

by Joan Schraith Cole
(Champaign, IL 61821)

My training was through Allison Ishman, a weekend workshop and then a single day practicum about 6 months later. For training of that scope, I thought she gave a good workshop. I have had clients come in for the full-body treatment that she taught (for purposes of detox, energy balance, immunity enhancement) and I have incorporated lymph drainage in other massage services I offer - post surgical area treatments, sinus congestion treatment, as a part of my gentle full body integrative massage treatment, or to address swelling in spot work treatments. It is a very good tool to have in the toolkit, and I use it at some point every week in my practice.

I will add that there are different flavors of MLD, but to be able to be certified by the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) in Complete Decongestive Therapy, of which MLD is one component, you need at least 135 hours of training.

I have not pursued such extensive training at this point, though I am trying to justify it to myself for the near future. It would be nice if LMTs could bill Medicare (without being under a Dr or Chiro)... it would make the nearly $3000 of tuition (not to mention lost income for 9-days to 2 weeks, plane fare and hotel bills) easier to swallow. I am torn between Norton School and Klose Training. Both are traditional Vodder style, and do offer MLD only training ($950 or $975 and 6 days). Klose the MLD-only training can be added on to later with a second class that covers the compression therapy, exercises and skin care that are also part of CDT. Norton does not at this time offer such an "upgrade" class.

My site is at www.joancolemassage.com to see more on Lympathic massage