Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a hands-on technique that was developed by Vodders (Dr. Emil and his wife Estrid) in 1936 for the treatment of swollen lymph nodes and lymphatic conditions. MLD is a light, skin-stretching manual technique that helps promote movement of lymph fluid out of stagnated tissues, rerouting lymph through more open lymph collectors/pathways. MLD can assist in recovery from post-traumatic or post-surgical edema, and palliative care. Often MLD is recommended as a component of the treatment plan known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) which incorporates other components to further assist individuals experiencing primary or secondary lymphedema. CDT was developed by Dr. Földi who was a lymphology specialist, who was able to have this approach recognized as the golden standard for the treatment of lymphedema in medical society. CDT is a combination of four methods (manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, lymphedema rehabilitation exercises, and skin care). It can achieve a 45-70% reduction in lymphedema volume.
