Online theory instruction (8 hours plus self-study and reading, total: 30 hours approx.). This theory instruction may also be provided by the relevant teacher (8 hours ++, 12 UI).

Contents of training:

• General anatomy and physiology of blood circulation;
• General anatomy of the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes;
• Indications and contraindications;
• Special anatomy of the main lymphatic vessels as well as of the lymphatic systems of the various body regions and the skin;
• Physiology of the interstitial space, lymphatic system and lymphatic fluid:
• Structure and function of the interstitial connective tissue, physiology of interstitial exchange of matter, diffusion, osmosis, colloid osmosis, filtration, reabsorption, active cell transport process, permeability of blood capillaries
• Extravascular circulation of blood proteins
• Exchange of matter and fluid in the terminal portions of pathways;
• Starling’s equilibrium;
• Physiology of the lymphatic system (drainage function, lymph formation, lymph-obligatory substances, lymph transport, transport capacity of the lymphatic system, defence and filter function); Lymphatic fluid, chyle;

Required book for the course is “Dr. Vodder Manual Lymph Drainage; A Practical Guide” by the Wittlinger’s which can be purchased directly from the Dr Vodder Akademie or from Amazon

The practical sessions include special techniques for the joints, the head (including intra oral) and deep abdominal work, introducing the student to therapeutic applications. Advanced theory and current research is discussed as well as a review of techniques and theory from Basic module.
Therapy 1 concludes with an exam and if passed successfully, an internationally recognized certification, allowing the therapist to treat skin conditions; fluid retention; muscle tension; sinus congestion; traumas; headaches; minor burns and scars; cellulite; bruising; constipation and minor arthritic conditions; chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, acne and acne rosacea.

Lymphoedemas are introduced in a didactic manner to bring awareness of the condition clinically and highlight to therapists that pathologies such as lymphoedema require further training.

Successful completion of the Therapy I exam enables the student to continue to these final two courses which are taught consecutively. The modules cover primary & secondary Lymphoedemas, vascular oedemas and other lymphatic related disorders and their treatment in the context of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT).

Theory instruction is given by a medical lymphologist affiliated with the Dr Vodder Akademie. Recent instructors include Prof Horst Weissleder & Dr Melanie Wohgennant

Recommended Textbook

Lymphoedema “Diagnosis and Therapy™ Prof Horst Weissleder & Prof Christian Schuchhardt. ISBN:3-934371-24-8

Bandaging and specific MLD treatments are taught.

At the end of the course, students take a written and practical exam to demonstrate competence in techniques, treatment and bandaging. Students who successfully complete the examinations may then describe themselves as Dr Vodder-Certified MLD / CDT Therapists which is an internationally recognized certificate of 160 hours training.