Abstract: Methods for measuring lymphatic performance are provided herein. Lymphatic pressure is measured by introducing a near infrared flourophore into the limb of a mammal, detecting the lymph flow with near infrared lights and sensors, occluding lymph flow with a pressure cuff, and then noting the pressure at which lymph flow returns. Lymphatic performance is derived by comparing lymphatic pressure measurements taken at multiple points along a mammal's limb, and by measuring the rate at which lymph is emptied upstream from occluded vessels.