What is the goal of MLD strokes in edema reduction?

• A. To increase blood viscosity.
• B. To move lymph toward functioning nodes and trunks, reducing edema.
• C. To compress tissue to reduce swelling.
• D. To heat the tissue to improve circulation.

Answer: (D)

The goal of MLD strokes is to move lymph toward functioning nodes and trunks to promote drainage and reduce edema. By using very light, rhythmic strokes that follow the natural lymphatic pathways toward regional lymph nodes, the therapist encourages lymph to enter the central drainage routes and be carried away from swollen areas. This mechanism relies on stimulating lymphatic vessel activity and directing flow along the lymphatic system, not on heating tissue, compressing tissue, or altering blood viscosity.