The lymphatic system is the neglected waste disposal system of human health. This separate circulatory system of lymph (a clear fluid), lymph vessels, and lymph nodes are responsible for returning excess fluid from the tissues back to the body’s circulatory system. The lymphatic system is the body’s immune system, which helps keep us healthy. The lymph fluid is that fluid between the cells and within the tissues. Lymph fluid plays an important role in protecting the body from inflammation, disease and illness. It travels from the tissue spaces to small vessels to the lymph nodes where it is then filtered and cleaned. Continuing through larger lymph vessels, it eventually joins the main veins in the neck area then the body’s blood circulation.
As a Lymphatic/Lymphedema Therapist, I use a “hands on” treatment with my patients. This method involves an extremely light touch and gentle drainage techniques. It assists the flow of the lymphatic system, stimulating and activating the lymph nodes and vessels throughout the body. Treatments assist the immune system are particularly important for those with auto-immune disorders. Treatments administered prior to surgical procedures help prepare the body before it is surgically altered and promote faster recovery, with less discomfort and decreased swelling/bruising. Treatments promote minimal scaring, effectively releasing tissue adhesions and scar tissue. They decrease the likelihood of Lymphedema while easing the discomfort of those who are affected with this condition. These therapy treatments support and improve the healing process.
When treating and working with our body as a whole we realize all our individual parts are connected. Everywhere we have blood in our body we have lymphatic fluid to be moved and help our bodies detoxify. This includes bones, all organs, connective tissue (fascia), muscles, our brain and our entire blood circulation system.
Lymphatic drainage is key for your body to rid itself of inflammation and toxins. It is extremely effective for anyone with an auto-immune disease, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, mold illness, Lyme disease and heavy metal toxicity, cancer and or radiation treatment. Before and after any surgical procedure lymph drainage treatments not only expedite and aid in the detoxification process; discomfort and fatigue are also lessened.
Often our body becomes constricted due to accidents, trauma, surgery, repetitive motion syndromes, neuromuscular weakness, or poor postural habits. When the lymph is stagnant the tissue inflames and is slow to heal because of poor blood supply and lack of hydration. There is also discomfort and pain involved because of the vast number of nerves that become constricted. Scar tissue in the muscles can form and range of motion and flexibility are compromised.
You’ve decided to schedule your surgery. Now you want the best recovery possible.
Lymphatic drainage accelerates healing.
For optimal results, it is recommended lymphatic drainage start with at least one treatment before surgery. This allows the body to begin draining toxins and stimulates the immune system. Surgeons, particularly aesthetic surgeons, find it easier to make incisions through cleared, well-drained tissue.
Lymphatic drainage treatment may be scheduled as soon as 24 hours after surgery. Additional sessions are recommended every 48-72 hours over a 5-10 day post-surgery period. This reduces the risk of infection by stimulating the immune system and helping to alleviate bruising and swelling while providing a more comfortable, reduced recovery.
Lymphatic treatment is a valuable technique that supports the main function of the lymphatic system, stimulating circulation of the lymphatic flow, blood and immune system. One of the most important aspects of treatment post-surgically is to alleviate swelling, bruising and discomfort, as well as diminish scarring, improve circulation and lymph flow to help the body heal faster.
Linda is one of a handful of southern Arizona’s accredited and certified Lymphedema and Complex Decongestive therapists. She incorporates CranioSacral Therapy into her treatments.