Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Emily Butts, OTR/L, MLD-C

LIC# 17383

  • Manual Lymph Drainage Certified (Vodder technique)-Academy of Lymphatic Studies
  • Certified Holistic MLD Practitioner- MLD Institute International
  • Medical Tape Concept Lymph Tape Certified
  • RockTape Kinesiology Tape certification

How to Book MLD with Emily

About Emily

Emily Butts is an occupational therapist specializing in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). In 2022, she founded Innergreat with a desire to help people achieve their wellness goals through the method of lymph care and education. Innergreat hosts a monthly community event, Love of Self Sundays, to bring awareness of health and wellness alternatives to her local community.

Emily developed her passion for lymphatic drainage while working at the Bay Area Brain Spa. She experienced fantastic health benefits, such as weight loss, a more robust immune system, clearer skin, balanced hormones, and more quality sleep. It became clear to Emily that there was something special about the lymphatic system, so she took a deep dive and “geeked out” on techniques that support and nourish the lymphatic system.

When Emily is away from the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 inquisitive sons, taking long hikes in the Oakland hills, meditating on her PEMF mat, roller skating on sunny days, dancing at home in her britches, and reading a good book with a warm cup of tea. 
Emily is double certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage and holds a certification in Lymph Taping through Medical Taping Concepts. She is a Petra Irving’s Aftercare Academy member, which provides education and support for MLD therapists working with post-op clients. She is passionate about increasing her knowledge through continuing education and partakes in weekly MLD sessions to achieve her wellness goals.

Indications for MLD

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Migraine
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Cellulite
  • Post-traumatic
  • Post Op
  • Arthritis 
  • Weight loss

Contraindications for MLD

Absolute Contraindication for MLD:

  • Acute infection
  • Renal Failure
  • Cardiac edema/CHF
  • Acute DVT
  • Acute bronchitis 

Contraindications for the neck:

  • Carotid endarterectomy 
  • Hyperthyroidism 
  • Carotid-sinus syndrome
  • History of CVA/TIA
  • Cardiac arrhythmias 

Contraindications for deep abdominals (can still receive superficial treatment): 

  • Inflammatory conditions of small/large intestines
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis 
  • Recent abdominal surgery (within 1 year)
  • Radiation fibrosis, radiation cystis
  • Unexplained pain
  • History of DVT in abdominal area
  • Under 12 yo
  • While menstruating