Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT)

Gold Standard Lymphoedema Treatment

Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT) is internationally recognised as the gold standard treatment for lymphoedema. It is a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that combines specialised therapies to reduce swelling, improve lymphatic function, and help you manage lymphoedema safely and effectively over the long term.

At Toccarē Massage & Lymphatics, we understand that no two people experience lymphoedema the same way. Following a comprehensive assessment, we develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your condition, symptoms and lifestyle, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes while improving comfort, mobility and quality of life.

Whether you have recently been diagnosed or have been living with lymphoedema for many years, our goal is to support you with compassionate, evidence-informed care every step of the way.

What is Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy?

Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy is a multi-faceted treatment program that works to reduce excess lymphatic fluid, minimise swelling and improve the body’s natural lymphatic circulation.

Rather than relying on a single treatment method, DLT combines several proven therapies that work together to achieve the best long-term results. The treatment plan is customised according to the severity of your lymphoedema, the areas affected and your individual goals.

Early treatment and ongoing management can help slow the progression of lymphoedema, minimise complications, and support better long-term outcomes.

For many people, DLT not only reduces swelling but also improves comfort, movement and confidence in everyday life.

What’s Included in Your Treatment?

our personalised Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy program may include:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, specialised massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and encourage the movement of lymph fluid away from swollen areas. This helps reduce fluid build-up while supporting the body’s natural drainage pathways.

Compression Therapy
Compression plays an important role in managing lymphoedema by helping prevent fluid from returning to affected areas after treatment. Depending on your needs, this may include compression bandaging, compression garments or Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (SIPC) therapy.

Exercise & Movement
Gentle, targeted exercises help activate the body’s natural muscle pump, encouraging lymphatic flow while improving mobility, strength and flexibility. Your exercise recommendations will be tailored to your individual abilities and treatment goals.

Skin Care Education
Healthy skin is essential when living with lymphoedema. We provide education on effective skin care techniques to help reduce the risk of infection, maintain skin integrity and support healthy tissue.

Self-Management Strategies
Successful long-term management extends beyond the treatment room. We’ll provide practical education and guidance so you can confidently manage your lymphoedema between appointments through compression, movement, skin care and lifestyle strategies.

Benefits of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy

Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy may help:

  • Reduce swelling and fluid build-up
  • Improve lymphatic drainage and circulation
  • Decrease feelings of heaviness and discomfort
  • Improve movement and flexibility
  • Support healthy skin and tissue health
  • Reduce the risk of infection and other complications
  • Improve comfort during everyday activities
  • Support long-term management of lymphoedema
  • Improve overall quality of life
Therapist performing Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy on a patient's leg to help reduce lymphoedema swelling.

Who Can Benefit?

Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy may be recommended for people experiencing:

  • Primary lymphoedema
  • Secondary lymphoedema following cancer treatment
  • Swelling after surgery or trauma
  • Chronic limb swelling
  • Lipolymphoedema (where clinically appropriate)

If you’re unsure whether DLT is appropriate for your condition, we can assess your symptoms and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.

Personalised Lymphoedema Care

At Toccarē Massage & Lymphatics, we believe successful lymphoedema management requires more than simply reducing swelling. Our focus is on helping you improve function, maintain long-term results and confidently manage your condition with ongoing support and education.

Every treatment plan is individually tailored following a comprehensive assessment, ensuring your care is based on your unique needs and goals. We take the time to explain your condition, answer your questions and provide practical strategies that fit into your daily life.

Whether your lymphoedema is related to cancer treatment, surgery, trauma or a primary lymphatic condition, we’re committed to helping you move more comfortably and enjoy a better quality of life.

Book a consultation today