Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle non invasive massage technique using very light pressure to stimulate the lymph vessels that lie just beneath the skin under the epidermal layer. By stimulating these 'initial lymphatics' it increases lymphangiomotoricity enabling the filling of the deeper lymphatic vessels. (see Your Lymphatic system). Lymphatic Drainage Massage. In the early 1930s, Emil Vodder developed a massage procedure called Lymph Drainage massage. The lymphatic system serves as a structure for detoxifying or cleaning the human body from toxic wastes, and pathologic organisms that can harm the body's normal body function. What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)? Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a light, skin stretching massage that is designed to help move lymph fluid back into remaining lymph vessels and reroute it out of your swollen limb. It is a very light and gentle massage that should not be confused with a traditional massage you may receive at a spa. Manual therapy, or manipulative therapy, is a physical treatment primarily used by physical therapists, physiotherapists to treat musculoskeletal pain and disability; it most includes kneading and manipulation of muscles, joint mobilization and joint manipulation.It's also used by occupational therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, athletic trainers, osteopaths, and physicians Lymphatic Massage. Lymphatic Massage - also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) - is a highly specialized and gentle massage technique used to increase lymph flow and encourage the natural drainage of the lymph from the body tissues. Lymphatic drainage motions use stationary circles as their basis, with the emphasis on pushing the lymph towards the correct nodes. One of the defining aspects of any lymphatic drainage technique is the light application of pressure, which can even surprise massage therapists, especially those trained mainly in Swedish or deep tissue massage. Causes, Types, Measurement