What is the Lymphatic System?
The Lymphatic System is a slow-moving network of vessels that penetrate both superficially and deeply throughout our entire bodies. Vessels range in size from fine capillaries to large collectors, ducts and trunks, and the network encompasses skin, muscles, flesh, bones, joints and organs.
Lymph fluid flows toward the heart, traveling thru the body upwards from the hands and feet, and downwards from the head. Along the way, it passes through lymph nodes, where it is filtered.
The primary functions of the lymphatic system are to:
- collect debris (excess fluid, waste, toxins, dead cells, pathogens, carbohydrates, etc.) for filtration by the lymph nodes and eventual removal
- aid the immune system in destroying pathogens and filtering waste
- deliver, in conjunction with the circulatory system, nutrients, oxygen and hormones from the blood to the cells
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle but powerful technique, the aim of which is to accelerate Lymph flow through stimulation of lymphatic channels and lymphangions.
Lymphangions are the basic functional unit of the lymph vesssels – if you visualize a string of pearls, each pearl would be a lymphangion. The string represents a lymph vessel. When a lymphangion senses, through its reflex arc, that is filled with lymph fluid, it contracts to move the fluid along the lymph vessel.
Fluid eventually rejoins your venous system and the excess is removed by your kidneys. Lymph draingage helps in this manner to increase the rate of lymphanion contraction and lymph flow. If vein problems are an issue, MLD can also assist with that by mobilizing fluid.
MLD is a great way to reduce swelling in a multitude of conditions such as
- 1. Lymphedema
- 2. Lipedema
- 3. Venous disease
- 4. Post operative swelling and fluid
By decongesting our lymphatic system, we achieve a more efficient metabolism. Some of the benefits acquired are:
- Stimulates immunity
- more energy
- fewer illnesses and allergies
- reduction of chronic pain (including arthritis, fibromyalgia, headaches)
- clearer skin (plus reduction of wrinkles, acne, puffiness under eyes)
- weight loss
Manual Lymph Drainage is gentle and relaxing, but has powerful effects. It consists of a slow, rhythmic progression of light strokes, and some gentle stretching of the skin, toward an area above your collarbone, called the venus angle. Clearing superficial congestion from the lymph system creates a vacuum effect, pulling up fluid from deeper, more distant parts of the body. Lymph fluid starts moving and flowing, instead of remaining stagnant.
Our fully certified, trained, and experienced MLD therapist, Lizabeth Gottsegen will gladly assist with any and all of your concerns with MLD therapy.