MLD is a gentle manual treatment technique that improves the activity of the lymph vascular system. In lymphedema, it re-routes the lymph flow around the blocked areas into more centrally located healthy lymph vessels that drain into the venous system. 

The lymph system is a vital circulatory system and the body's primary immune defense and waste eliminator system; the LS is responsible for keeping the connective tissue surrounding the cells of the body free from excess water, proteins, bacteria, viruses, inorganic materials like dust and dyes, and destroyed cells ( e.g. as a result of bruise or other injuries ). Located along the lymph vessels are the body's 600-700 lymph nodes acting as "purifying stations," drawing out and destroying bacteria, viruses, dead cells, and inorganic substances. Lymphatic flow can become stagnant for many reasons such as swelling, chronic inflammation, lack of physical activity, stress, fatigue, emotional shock, age, poorly fitted brassieres, lymph node removal after surgery. When this system is blocked, we become defenseless against attacks by viruses, fungi and bacterium.