Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a safe, effective technique that utilizes slow, rhythmic strokes to increase lymphatic flow. The gentle movements stimulate the lymph vessels to contract, which allows more waste products, proteins and excess fluid to be removed from the body's tissues and into the lymphatic system. Manual lymph drainage is defined by MedlinePlus (United States National Library of Medicine) as "a light massage therapy technique that involves moving the skin in particular directions based on the structure of the lymphatic system. This helps encourage drainage of the fluid and waste through the appropriate channels." Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the most successful treatment for chronic extremity lymphedema. Post mastectomy lymphedema and other related conditions respond extremely well to this gentle, non-invasive, and highly effective therapy. Lymphatic Drainage Techniques All the Lymphatic Drainage techniques are based on one principle motion. Research has found that the initial lymphatics open up and the lymph angions are stimulated by a straight stretch, but even more so with a little lateral motion. Lymphatic drainage massage is a profound technique to help increase lymph flow. With an increase of lymph flow immune function is increased. Harmful substances are removed from the tissues and neutralized in the nodes. 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. Lymphatic drainage massage is a delicate massage that is aimed to work on the lymph flow. It consists of numerous constant, light and rhythmic movements. A very little or no pressure at all is exerted; it is just like touching the skin in a certain motion. Manual Lymphatic Drainage Techniques (MLD) and Its Effects on Edema After Total Knee Replacement (TKR) Surgery •Manual Lymph Drainage Technique is not reserved for any particular population. It can benefit patients oriented Massage Therapists, The technique is also effective in releasing blockages of lymph flow, which can cause swelling of the tissues (edema). What are the benefits of Lymphatic Drainage? Manual lymphatic drainage helps to rid the body of toxins and excess lymph by stimulating the body's lymphatic system using specific massage techniques. Uses: Therapists use _____ to increase venous return and lymphatic return, to spread oil/lotion at the start of regional massage, and to relax patient. They often use it at intervals during clinical massage to give clients a break from deeper or more aggressive techniques Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Massage: Upper Extremity (Arm) • Use 3 fingers to gently massage the soft spot at the area where your neck and shoulder meet. (Number 1) • Gently massage both sides of your