Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymph Drainage
The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system. The fluid that travels throughout the system is called “lymph”, and it carries water, protein, and cellular waste out of the tissues where it eventually ends up at the kidneys and liver to be processed and removed from the body. When the system is over-worked, either from injury to the body or damage to the system, the lymph accumulates and swelling (a.k.a. edema) can occur. This accumulation of fluid can inhibit normal cellular processes and bodily function. Manual Lymph Drainage allows the therapist to assist stagnant fluid through the lymphatic vessels and help to reduce edema.
Lymphatic vessels are located just below the skin and on top of the fascial system that wraps around muscles. It requires a very light touch to move the lymph through these vessels without crushing them due the small distances between these structures. Manual Lymph Drainage has been shown to:
Reduce edema
Reduce pain
Activate the Parasympathetic Nervous System (rest/digest/repair)
It has also been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of:
Fibromyalgia
Autoimmune Disorders
Post-Surgical Swelling
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is no longer able to keep up with removing fluid and proteins from between the tissues. This is caused by the lymphatic system being damaged, or the removal of parts such as lymph nodes or lymph vessels. Once the system is compromised the chances of developing lymphedema become very high. Because the lymphatic system is now missing parts it can no longer efficiently remove the proteins and fluid between the tissues, and they begin to accumulate. This can cause swelling, pain, hardening of the tissues, a feeling of heaviness in the effected limb, skin infections, loss of movement, and can inhibit daily activities.
While there is no cure for lymphedema once it has developed, it can be a manageable disease. One component of this treatment is Manual Lymph Drainage. This modality assists the body by mimicking the processes it can no longer effectively perform, and helps move the excess fluids out of the tissues.
Certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy for the Treatment of Lymphedema, Elizabeth helps her clients manage lymphedema by providing them with resources, education, and manual therapy sessions to reduce their symptoms. With proper care and a team approach her clients are able to get relief from this disease and improve their overall wellbeing.