Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique that improves circulation of the lymph through the lymphatic system. The human body’s lymphatic system drains fluids, detoxifies and regenerates tissues and helps maintain a healthy immune system. A lymphatic system that functions at its best is critical to the body's health and wellbeing.

In the 1930s, Dr Emil Vodder and his wife Estrid began using MLD to treat chronic sinusitis and other disorders of the immune system. They developed a technique of gentle hand movements to cause lymph movement and introduced their method in Paris in 1936. This technique is now one of the primary tools used to manage lymphedema, a condition where the lymphatic system is obstructed. When the lymphatic system is obstructed, toxins accumulate and physical ailments can result.

Lymphatic drainage massage therapy stimulates and moves excess fluid away from swollen areas so that it can drain away. It combines slow, gentle pressure with soft pumping movements in the direction of the body’s lymph nodes.

The massage therapist usually starts with the lymph nodes in the neck and moves down the body, then out to the limbs. This massage technique uses the pads of the fingers and thumbs and the palms of the hands. The increase and decrease of pressure creates a suction and pumping effect that mimics the body’s natural action.

Cancer treatments such as radiation and surgery can cause the lymph system to become blocked. With breast cancer, this often occurs in the armpit. Nodes in the groin area or the pelvis can occur if cancer affects these areas. MLD is very helpful in relieving swelling and helping the immune system to recover. In addition to these serious situations, MLD can also improve the appearance and health of skin.