The lymphatic system is the drainage system for your body, constantly filtering out waste products, cellular debris, excess fluid, and pathogens. The lymphatic system is made of a complex network of vessels, organs, and lymph nodes which, alongside your circulatory system, plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy internal environment. When the lymphatic system functions optimally, your immune system is strong, inflammation is reduced, and you experience a general sense of well-being.
How does the lymphatic system work?
Massage therapy is very beneficial to the lymphatic system, which includest the spleen (filters blood), thymus (produces immune cells), tonsils and adenoids (traps bacteria and viruses).
DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT PLASMA IS?
Yes! Plasma is the liquid part of blood that carries red and white blood cells and throughout the body. About 55% of blood is plasma, and the rest is cells. While you are running erands and reading the paper, plasma seeps through your capillary walls, like water from a sponge, and soaks all your tissues with vital nutrients and oxygen. The tissues absorb the goodness from the plasma and leave waste products. Some of the plasma soaks back into the capillaries, and the remaining liquid is called lymph.
Lymph transports damaged cells, cancer cells, and waste products to any of your 600 lymph nodes, where they are filtered out. Immune cells called lymphocytes also dwell within the lymph nodes, identifying and neutralizing threats like bacteria and viruses. The freshly cleaned lymph is then pumped to your chest where it rejoins the bloodstream and makes the journey again.
Causes of lymphatic drainage issues
Unlike the circulatory system, which has a central pump (the heart) that propels blood throughout the body, the lymphatic system relies on muscle contractions and pressure changes within the body to continue circulating. A sluggish lymphatic system can lead to a cascade of problems.
When lymph fluid accumulates in tissues, it can cause swelling, puffiness, and a feeling of heaviness. This condition, known as lymphedema, can be localized or generalized, affecting specific areas like the arms or legs, or the whole body. Furthermore, a congested lymphatic system can hinder your immune system's ability to fight off infections and illnesses.
Signs like fatigue, unexplained swelling, persistent puffiness (especially in the face, ankles, or abdomen), swollen lymph nodes, and frequent colds or infections can all be signs that your lymphatic system might be sluggish. Certain factors that can hinder lymph flow include:
Injury or surgery
Chronic health conditions like obesity, heart disease, certain cancers, and inflammatory conditions
How massage can help
Massage therapy offers a non-invasive, gentle approach to supporting the lymphatic system. While all massage is beneficial to the lymphatic system, lymphatic drainage massage (LDM) is a gentle, rhythmic technique that uses light pressure and specific strokes to move lymph fluid towards the lymph nodes. Here are some specific benefits of massage to the lymphatic system:
Increased fluid movement: Specific massage strokes applied towards the lymph nodes can stimulate the lymphatic vessels and promote lymph flow.
Reduced swelling: LDM can be particularly helpful for patients experiencing lymphedema or post-surgical swelling. By encouraging lymph flow, massage can help alleviate lymphedema and promote tissue health.
Improved immune function: Enhanced lymph flow allows for better delivery of immune cells to fight off pathogens and maintain overall health.
Pain relief: Reduced swelling can alleviate pressure on pain-sensitive structures.
Self-care tips beyond the massage table
In addition to massage therapy, several self-care practices can support a healthy lymphatic system:
Dry skin brushing: Brushing your skin with a dry skin brush can help stimulate lymph flow. Brush gently in the direction of your armpits and groin, where many lymph nodes are located.
Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially activities that promote rhythmic muscle contractions like jumping rope or swimming, can enhance lymphatic drainage. Any kind of jumping is also good. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps your body keep every system, including the lymph system, moving.
Deep breathing: Deep diaphragmatic breathing helps pump lymph fluid throughout the body by changing the pressure within the chest cavity.
Compression socks: If you have to sit or stand for long periods, consider wearing compression socks to help keep lymph fluid from accumulating in your lower legs and feet.
By incorporating a combination of self-care practices and professional massage therapy, you can support the vital work of your lymphatic system.
Come visit us at Parkside
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just need a tune-up, we’re here to help. We tailor our care to your specific condition and tap into your body’s natural healing ability. Make an appointment, or if you have any questions, contact us.