Kokua Bodywork · San Diego Location
Lymphatic Drainage Massage in San Diego
Personalized manual lymphatic drainage therapy with Yvonne Martin — a Vodder-trained lymphedema therapist serving San Diego clients recovering from surgery, managing chronic swelling, or simply supporting their immune and detox pathways.
Rhythmic · Gentle · Directional — the pattern of a single MLD stroke
Serving North County
San Diego Office Hours
- Mon9am - 6pm
- Wed9am - 6pm
- Fri8am - 2pm
- Sat8am - 2pm
- SunClosed
Carlsbad & the surrounding coast
Clients from across North County San Diego come in for sessions at the Carlsbad studio, an easy stop for anyone living or working along the coast.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (MLD)
Yvonne is trained in the Vodder Method, a gentle, rhythmic massage technique developed by Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife Estrid in 1932 and introduced to the public in 1935. It remains one of the most respected approaches to lymphatic therapy used in clinical and medical settings worldwide.
Today, the Vodder Method is used to support a wide range of conditions, including post-traumatic and post-surgical edema, oncology-related MLD, lymphedema, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine and sinus headaches, cellulite, pregnancy-related edema, Lyme disease, diabetes, and general inflammation. It also pairs well as a follow-up to deep tissue work and as a wellness treatment to support immunity and reduce stress.
San Diego clients are exposed to the same everyday toxin load as anyone else — food additives, EMFs, environmental pollutants, and chronic stress. The lymphatic system is the body's natural waste management network, and manual lymphatic drainage helps keep that system moving efficiently. MLD also calms the nervous system, which helps lower the body's overall stress response.
Who Benefits from Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Post-Surgical & Cosmetic Recovery
San Diego clients often book MLD sessions after Lipo 360, BBL, tummy tuck, facelift, and implant or explant procedures. The gentle, non-invasive technique helps reduce swelling, bruising, and inflammation, while softening developing scar tissue and supporting a faster overall recovery.
Oncology Support
Cancer treatments — chemotherapy, radiation, and procedures like lymph node removal — can leave clients at risk for lymphedema or impaired lymph flow from surgical scarring. MLD can help redirect fluid from compromised areas, ease post-surgical discomfort, and reduce hematoma and constipation. Oncology clients are always encouraged to coordinate with their healthcare team before adding MLD to a treatment plan.
Autoimmune & Chronic Conditions
Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis are among the autoimmune conditions that often respond well to MLD — helping reduce pain, support better sleep, relieve tissue congestion, and lower inflammation.
Lymphedema Management
Lymphedema shows up as swelling and fluid retention in the head, arms, legs, or trunk. Early signs include heaviness, aching, burning, stiffness, and clothing or jewelry that suddenly feels tight. Causes range from surgery and trauma to radiation, lymph node removal, chronic venous issues, and heredity — catching it early matters.
Theresa M.
I highly recommend Yvonne!!! I was referred to her after a workout injury and Yvonne was so knowledgeable and caring ! I have always felt like I’m in good hands with her and now I call her at the first sign of pain to prevent further damage! I have and will continue to recommend her to friends and family !
Chelsea W.
I just underwent a major surgery and I honestly don't think I could've recovered from my surgery without Yvonne, both mentally and physically. She is extremely gifted at her profession as well as an amazing human being. She's educated at her craft, thoughtful, considerate, and listens so that she meets your exact needs and helps you throughout your journey of recovery. I can't give her enough praise. She's a professional healer that expands her craft consistently so she can help as many people as possible. I couldn't recommend her enough!
Testimonials
What San Diego Clients Are Saying Clients
Alexandra del C.
I love that Yvonne is so knowledgeable about the anatomy and communicates exactly which part of the muscle system is receiving the most care during the massage. Yvonne listens to what area after surgery is causing the most swelling, which she quickly identifies. Her lymphatic massage brings relief and healing. Working with Yvonne has made my healing journey so much better!! Since getting massages from her, I am more informed on what I have to do to facilitate the healing process. I highly recommend her healing hands, knowledge, and passion for what she does! Yvonne is a wonderful person!! ❤️ - Alexandra
