Manual Lymph Drainage

Manual Lymph Drainage (also referred to as

simply MLD) is a very gentle type of massage
therapy used to drain excess fluid from the body
and improve the overall functioning of the
lymphatic (immune) system. MLD is most
commonly used to treat Lymphedema, which is
characterized by the blockage of lymph nodes in
the arms and legs.

MLD originated in Europe during the 1930s. It

was first used on patients as an effective way to
detoxify (ridding of waste) the body. Today, MLD
is still used as a way to improve the inner
workings of the lymphatic system. The massage
is applied gently in the direction of lymph flow in
order to unblock any obstructed lymph vessels,
and allow lymph flow to transport waste from the
body freely.
MLD massage is performed by a certified MLD
massage therapist, who applies a light form of
circular massage to their clients skin. MLD
massages must be applied to bare skin, and no
massage oils or lotions can be used in order for
the treatment to be effective. MLD massage is
applied in gentle strokes towards the heart. This
technique will lightly stretch the walls of the
lymph vessels and encourage lymph drainage.
During your MLD treatment your massage
therapist may use one of four very effective MLD
techniques to encourage lymph drainage:
Stationary Circles these strokes are applied in
continuous spirals with the massage therapists
fingertips typically over the neck, face and
lymphatic nodes.
The Pump Technique the massage therapist
will place their palms down on the skin, and
make oval strokes with their fingers and thumbs
to encourage lymph flow.
The Rotary Technique the therapist massages
the skin in circular motions with their palms
facing down. The wrists are used to apply and
lessen the stroke pressure.
Scoop Strokes the massage therapists palms
will face up, and their fingers remain
outstretched so that their hands are cupped to
resemble a scoop. Twisting strokes are applied
to the clients skin to encourage waste disposal.