Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage has powerful, relaxing. Cleansing, pain relieving and has Immunological effects. Its a gentle, flowing, rhythmic treatment and is applied for many pathologies, with great results.
The Lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system, blood circulation and immune system, It provides many functions.
Removes waste from cells (bacteria, virus etc.)
A Drainage System by collecting and returning interstitial fluid, Including plasma protein to the blood. This prevents oedema and maintains fluid balance.
Return larger protein molecules back to the bloodstream.
A Defence System combats infections and generates antibodies by producing lymphocytes. ( A type of immune cell made in bone marrow and found in blood and lymph tissue)
A fat (Lipids)absorption system from the intestines and transports them to the blood.
Lymphatic tissue is found in every organ in the body and the spleen and thymus gland are made up of lymphatic tissue.
The Lymphatic Circulation is a drainage system.
It runs parallel with blood capillaries, its role is to maintain fluid balance. If the body is dehydrated there is not enough fluid in the body. The body will not remove any bacteria or virus.
Lymph nodes
Are found all over the body, they are connected by network of tiny lymphatic vessels. There are many throughout the body under one arm there are as many as 20-50 nodes. They are known for filtering and phagocytosis (They ingest bacteria)
What happens when the lymph vessel is block?
They will be a build up in the vessel causing swelling in the area this is know as lymphedema. Due to the blockage the body will not be able to drain any bacteria or virus, sometimes causing tumours to grow, or to spread to the adjacent tissue. Sometimes more serious infections can occur.
As you move or are active, your muscles are working and blood is flowing through the body. The lymphatic system will work automatically, however if you are immobile, your muscles are not required and the blood flow is decreased. The sympathetic system will not work. Causing you to be more at risk of lymphedema. Other potential causes are obesity, post surgery, traumatic event, injuries and people going through cancer treatment.