Manual Lymphatic Drainage

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle massage generally used to help the flow of the lymph, or fluid in excess, from swollen areas to healthy lymph nodes. It is widely recognised as one of the key treatments for the management of lymphoedema.

It is a very light-pressure massage where we follow a set of strokes that are scientifically proven to reduce the oedema and improve lymph flow. The patient feels immediate relief regarding the compression or tightness that the swelling is causing on the affected limb. It is considered by most patients to be a very relaxing therapy as well.

Deborah is a qualified MLD Leduc Method therapist. There are only 4 International approved schools: Vodder, Foldi, Casley-Smith and Leduc. Professor Leduc only teaches qualified healthcare professionals and in Portugal only Physiotherapist are trained in Leduc Method. Being Portuguese and a Physiotherapist it was just natural that Deborah follows this method.

What Conditions Does Manual Lymphatic Drainage Treat?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage can be of help with a number of conditions including:

- Primary and Secondary Lymphoedema

- Lipoedema

- Cellulite (not cellulitis)

- Post-traumatic injuries

- Post-surgery oedema

- Healing of wounds and burns

Your Physiotherapist

Deborah Fernandes is a Member of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapist and the Clinic Director of PhysioFit Woman.

Deborah is a Leduc Manual Lymphatic Therapist and Lymphoedema Therapist. Although this specific method is given during University training, Deborah had the privilege of training directly with Professor Albert Leduc in 2004, 2009 and 2015 and is now the Representative of Leduc's Method Training for Ireland and UK

Her clinical Oncology Physiotherapy placement was held in the Portuguese Institute of Oncology, a reference Hospital in Portugal dedicated in providing cancer care since 1923.

During University training, Deborah had a brilliant Oncology Physiotherapist lecturer Mr. Nuno Duarte who is now the Physiotherapist Manager of the above hospital. Mr. Nuno Duarte also supervised Deborah's Mastectomy Physiotherapy volunteer apprenticeship in 1998 including Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Bandages, Pressotherapy and Mastectomy exercise classes. Mr. Nuno is the representative of Leduc's Method in Portugal

Deborah also holds specific post graduation training in Face and Body Aesthetics Physiotherapy (Functional Dermatology Physiotherapy) which is crucial for any breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.

In 2013 Deborah completed the Pink Ribbon Programme with its founder, Doreen Puglisi enhancing her own Physiotherapy-Pilates programme.

With 20 years of experience in Physiotherapy at International level and specific training in Oncology Rehabilitation, Deborah provides Physiotherapy for post-cancer surgery including breast reconstruction, Lymphoedema Rehabilitation and Pilates for post-breast cancer patients