It provides a systematic approach to the clearance of lymphatic drainage regions, compromising of hand manoeuvres, effleurage strokes and breathing exercises. Delivered in a slow, rhythmical fashion using gentle pressures, MLD is usually provided within a programme of physical therapies including exercise and skin care.  The swollen area may also be bandaged or a compression garment used to support the limb.

When MLD is used to treat severe or complicated lymphoedema (such as body swelling alongside limb swelling) it is usually given on a daily basis over two to three weeks. Time spent each day will depend on the site and size of the swollen area, but always include treatment of the main drainage routes in the body. Some of the specific techniques can be simplified into a slow effleurage movement over the skin which the patient or carer can learn for self-management.