Karthikeyan Diwakar

Registered Massage Therapist, Vodder Certified Manual Lymph Drainage and Combined Decongestive Therapist

Get to Know Karthikeyan – Edmonton Massage & Lymphatic Therapist

What inspired you to pursue a career in massage therapy and wellness?

My passion has always been understanding how the human body heals. With my advanced background in massage therapy, manual osteopathy, and lymphatic drainage therapy, I was naturally drawn to helping people in Edmonton recover from injuries, swelling, post-surgical procedures, and chronic pain.

Supporting clients through their wellness journey—especially those dealing with post-op swelling, lymphedema, lipedema, and chronic pain—is what inspires me every day.

How do you approach each treatment session, and what techniques do you use to ensure clients feel comfortable and supported?

Comfort, communication, and consent are the foundation of every session at my Edmonton clinic.

Before each treatment, I complete a thorough assessment and discuss your goals, whether you are seeking:

  • Lymphatic drainage massage in Edmonton

  • Post-operative care for tummy tuck, lipo, BBL, or breast surgery

  • Manual osteopathy in Edmonton

  • Chronic pain treatment

  • Lymphedema or lipedema management

During the session, I check in about pressure, temperature, and comfort. I always ask for consent before treating sensitive areas—especially during lymphatic or post-op sessions.

My treatment approach blends:

  • Dr. Vodder–trained Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

  • Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

  • Manual Osteopathy

  • Craniosacral Therapy

  • Visceral Manipulation

  • Therapeutic massage & relaxation techniques

After your treatment, I provide customized home-care, including stretching, mobility work, compression guidance, breathing techniques, and self-MLD routines to continue your healing at home.

What conditions or treatments are your favourite to work on?

I specialize in helping Edmonton clients with:

  • Post-operative healing (lipo, tummy tuck, BBL, breast surgeries)

  • Lymphatic drainage massage

  • Lymphedema and lipedema treatment in Edmonton

  • Chronic swelling, fibrosis, and fluid retention

  • Chronic pain, headaches, migraines, and TMJ issues

  • Stress reduction and nervous system regulation

I am passionate about helping clients feel lighter, move better, and regain control of their wellness.

How would you describe your treatment style?

My treatment style is therapeutic, gentle, and effective — ideal for both general and specialized concerns.

For swelling and post-op clients, I use precise, rhythmic Dr. Vodder lymphatic drainage techniques that support healing and reduce inflammation.

For musculoskeletal clients, I incorporate:

  • Myofascial release

  • Craniosacral therapy

  • Osteopathic techniques

  • Stretching & mobilizations

  • Relaxation flow for nervous system calmness

Every treatment is customized to the client’s body and goals.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

What motivates me is seeing clients leave feeling:

  • Lighter

  • More comfortable

  • Less swollen

  • More mobile

  • More confident in their healing

Helping someone in Edmonton go from pain or swelling to relief and improved health is incredibly rewarding. Supporting recovery after cosmetic surgery or chronic swelling conditions is especially meaningful to me.

What is your go-to stretch or favourite treatment to recommend?

I love teaching simple but highly effective movements such as:

  • Pec stretches to open the chest

  • Figure-4 glute stretch

  • Diaphragmatic breathing (vital for lymphatic flow)

  • Neck and shoulder mobility exercises

For swelling clients in Edmonton, I often include self-MLD routines and compression therapy guidance, which greatly improve long-term results.

What does self-care look like for you?

My self-care is built on consistency in:

  • Healthy sleep

  • Hydration

  • Functional movement

  • Grounding and breathing techniques

  • Calm time for mental and emotional balance

These practices allow me to show up fully for my clients.

What is your favourite way to move your body?

Movement depends on the season — from walking and stretching to light workouts that keep my body mobile and strong.
My goal is always to stay balanced so I can provide the best care to my Edmonton massage therapy and lymphatic drainage clients.