The strokes applied in manual lymph drainage are designed to stimulate the movement of the lymphatic fluids in order to assist the body in cleansing, reduce oedema (stagnant fluid, water retention) and promote detoxification of tissues.

This is a gentle, rhythmical technique that removes inflammatory materials and toxins from the connective tissue, enhances the activity of the immune system, reduces pain, and lowers the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. This is usually targeted at the lower leg area.