Lymphatic Therapy
The lymphatic system is composed of lymph, lymph nodes, and lymph vessels. The lymphatic system defends the body against infections and diseases by removing waste and toxins and moves lymph between the blood and tissues.
The body’s “second circulatory system” consists of lymph nodes, a connecting network of lymphatic tissues, and helpful components such as the thymus, spleen, tonsil and bone marrow. There are some health conditions that can cause lymph fluid to build up in a particular area of the body where it causes swelling. This condition is called lymphedema. Lymphatic drainage is very beneficial for people with this type of condition. It can even help people who experience fibromyalgia, swelling, fatigue, arthritis, digestive problems, and even stress. The results are almost immediate, with significant reduction of swelling in the area. A properly functioning lymphatic system is crucial to a healthy life.
Lymphatic drainage is a manual technique used to stimulate the flow of lymph (a clear fluid that circulates through the body via the lymphatic system) to relieve swelling and improve health. Among its many functions, lymph helps isolate disease-causing pathogens and returns captured fats and protein back into the bloodstream.
Because the lymphatic system plays a central role in the body’s immune system, proponents of lymphatic drainage suggest that this form of therapeutic massage can help treat a variety of health conditions.