What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is made up of two parts:
- A collection of small tubes (known as our lymph vessels) found throughout the body, think of these tubes as part of the circulatory system of the body, and
- A collection of larger tissues found in various areas of the body
A closer look…
The tubes (or vessels) of the lymphatic system roughly follow the pathway of the veins in the body. Our veins function to send blood back to the heart, which then pumps blood back out to the body through the arteries. However, the pressure from the arteries causes some of the fluid and nutrients in blood to leak out into the surrounding tissues. The lymphatic vessels pick up the excess fluid and nutrients (mainly proteins) and send it back towards the heart to be re-used by the body, ensuring fluid and nutrients are not wasted. The fluid that travels through the lymphatic vessels is called ‘lymph’.
The lymph is transported through lymph vessels by muscles contracting and us moving our bodies. The fluid then travels through a filtration system, called the lymph nodes, where our immune system processes any bacteria, viruses or even cancer cells. After, the freshly cleaned lymph travels to a vein close to the heart to re-enter the blood and the cycle continues.
The small intestines also have some specialised lymph vessels, that help the body absorb fats from the foods we eat. This is another important function of the lymphatic system.
A dysfunctional Lymphatic System?
Sometimes the flow of the fluids in our body can become compromised – this can occur from an injury or disease. As a result, congestion can occur and things may become stagnant. This can result in:
- Reduced mobility
- Pain throughout body
- Imbalance
- Lymphedema – a swelling caused from a backlog of fluid, which is commonly seen in the hands, arms, feet and legs.
Treatment
The most common treatment for a dysfunctional lymphatic system is lymphatic drainage. This consists of massaging the built up lymph fluid, encouraging it to travel towards the lymph vessels.
Within our clinic, our remedial massage therapists Sarah and Margit have undergone
training in lymphatic drainage, or you could visit any of our osteopaths to maintain
fluid balance within your body.
If you are having any swelling or concerns with the flow of fluid, give us a call on 03 9846 2800. Or Click here to book online
Manual lymphatic drainage
What is manual lymphatic drainage?
Manual lymphatic drainage is a massage technique which helps move lymphatic fluid around the body. This fluid moves through the lymphatic system to the lymph nodes before entering into the venous system. Unlike the circulatory system which pumps blood, the lymphatic system relies on muscles and physical movement, and manual lymphatic drainage aids this process.
Manual lymphatic drainage has several physiological benefits including:
- Reduces built up lymphatic fluids
- Activates the parasympathetic nervous system – our relaxation nervous system, helping to calm the body
- Lowers blood pressure and heart rate
- Reduces stress
- Increases circulation and tissue temperature
- Helps to flush toxins and infection indicators to lymph nodes so the body can mount an immune response
- Transfers lymph fluid to the venous system so it can be filtered by our organs
These benefits can help with the symptoms of several conditions such as:
- Lymphoedema (build up lymphatic fluid)
- Sports injuries
- Cordes (axillary web syndrome)
- Lymph node dysfunction or removal
- Pregnancy related edema
- Headaches
- Stress disorders
- Lethargy
So, how does manual lymphatic drainage work?
- Treatment takes between 60-90 minutes and is most often done while lying on your back in a relaxed position
- It involves targeted motions on the chest, arms, abdomen, legs, feet, neck and face
- Manual lymphatic drainage is most appropriate when clearing multiple areas associated with lymph nodes
- Regardless of the targeted area, manual lymphatic drainage always starts and finished around the thoracic duct on the left upper chest
- Some people may experience increased urination, saliva production and swallowing, increased thirst and dizziness.
- Effects may be seen straight away, but will continue over the following days
So, if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or concerns book a consultation for an assessment and MLD treatment!