Manual Lymph Drainage is an advanced form of massage that aims to stimulate the lymphatic system to remove congestion and stagnation from within the body, and so help it return to a healthy condition. Dr Emil Vodder, who was able to show that many chronic conditions could be alleviated with lymphatic drainage and massage techniques, developed it in the 1930's

A true therapist will be trained in a recognized method such as Vodder or Casley-Smith. The treatment will involve a consultation and a massage using gentle rhythmic pumping techniques. Follow up advice on diet and other ways to stimulate the lymph may also be given.

Symptoms that are said to respond well to MLD are a weakened immune system, chronic congestion (sinus etc), rheumatoid arthritis and the healing of wounds, burns and scars. MLD is also often incorporated into the treatment and control of Lymphoedema.