The lymphatic system is an extensive, often forgotten network of vessels, nodes and ducts that passes through almost all bodily tissues and has several important functions.
1. Maintaining Bodily Fluid Balance
The lymphatic system carries excess fluid and proteins from the tissues that cannot return via the blood vessels. This fluid often collects in tiny spaces surrounding the cells, known as interstitial spaces, and small lymph capillaries connect these spaces to the lymphatic system.
A disruption of this fluid processing system can result in localised swelling or lymphedema.
The skin may feel tight and hard, and skin problems may occur. In some cases, fluid may leak through the skin.
2. Absorption
The lymphatic system plays a key role in intestinal function. It assists in transporting fat, fighting infections, and removing excess fluid. Part of the gut membrane in the small intestine contains tiny finger-like protrusions called villi. Each villus contains tiny lymph capillaries known as lacteals. These absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins to form a milky white fluid called 'chyle.' This fluid contains lymph and emulsified fats, or free fatty acids. It delivers nutrients indirectly when it reaches the venous blood circulation whereas blood capillaries take up other nutrients directly.
3. Immunity
The third function is to defend the body from exposure to potentially hazardous microorganisms. The body’s first line of defence involves physical barriers (such as skin), toxic barriers (such as the acidic contents of the stomach), and 'friendly' bacteria in the body. However, pathogens often do succeed in entering the body despite these defences. In this case, the lymphatic system enables the immune system to respond appropriately. A properly functioning immune system needs a healthy lymph flow as it is the lymph that removes bacteria, viruses and other foreign substances from the body.
Maintaining a smooth flow and sufficient drainage of the lymph system is therefore vitally important. But.....unlike the blood circulatory system, the lymph system has no pump to push lymphatic fluid around the body and so relies upon pressure from blood vessels and muscle movement to maintain fluid movement.
So what is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialised slow and rhythmic skin movement technique designed to open up lymph vessels, move lymph fluid, reduce swelling and remove waste from the body's cells. When cells swim in their own stagnant waste all day, things don't turn out well!
The benefits are extensive. Those who have restricted movement conditions such as lymphedema and fibromyalgia can benefit in particular but everybody benefits from the following:
Increased and properly directed lymphatic flow, promoting faster removal of excess interstitial fluid
Reduced water retention, swelling and puffiness
Improved immune system and ability to fight off infection due to the important elimination of toxins
Pain alleviation and improved recovery from acute injury
Improved recovery from illness and surgery
Improved healing of scar tissue & stretch marks
Improved pores and acne
Boosted weight loss and metabolic rate
Reduction of cellulite
Reduced physical fatigue and stress
Improved post-exercise recovery
Increased energy, focus and mood
An overall lightness in the body
When you shouldn't have MLD:
MLD is not recommended for those with:
a blood clot
a heart condition
kidney failure
cancer in the area
Book your Manual Lymphatic Drainage session:
Tel 01242 650810
Email hello@porchhouseclinic.co.uk
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