The official definition of Massage Therapy in Ontario is “… the hands-on manipulation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints for the purpose of optimizing health”.

Massage Therapy may include Swedish Massage, joint mobilization, dermoneuromodulation, kinesio taping, therapeutic ultrasound, and other soft tissue manipulations. Not all techniques will be used during a massage therapy appointment, as each has its own risks and benefits, and so may not be appropriate for a given individual’s circumstances.

MLD is a hands-on therapy, where the therapist gently and slowly stretches the skin.

This is different from what most people consider massage to be, as only the skin is moved and the pressure is very light.

The direction and type of movement is designed to aid the lymphatic system in moving lymph away from the congested area to an area that is able to handle the additional lymph load, and to speed up the rate at which lymph is moving through the body.

This type of treatment may be helpful for other types of swelling/edema, such as injuries (sprained ankle), post-surgery (tummy tuck), swelling due to arthritis, etc.

CDT includes the use of bandaging, compression garments, exercise/movement, self-care, and MLD to decrease and control lymphedema.

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) is funded by the Ontario government to help offset the financial cost of custom compression garment(s).

An ADP Authorizer will discuss the patient's diagnosis and work with the patient to determine which garments are most suitable, and authorize the application so the patient is able to proceed to an ADP Fitter for application completion and garment measurement.

Compression garments can be used to assist with a variety of issues, and are not just for legs. Compression garments are available for the hand, arm, torso, abdomen, and any combination thereof. The purpose of these garments is to provide a constant graduated pressure to help alleviate symptoms and to provide support.

Please note that these garments are NOT covered by the Assistive Devices Program.

Some insurance companies may cover the cost of the compression garment(s), but it is up to the patient to make the inquiry. The cost of the garment cannot be direct billed, but a receipt will be provided for patients to submit to their insurance company. It is highly recommended that the patient have a medical prescription for the garment before making a purchase, as the patient is responsible for meeting all requirements set out by their insurance company/policy.