The Lymphatic System
The Lymphatic System is a circulatory system for lymphatic fluid, which is made up of lymphocytes and macrophages (types of white blood cells), toxins, larger molecular “debris”, amino acids, protein-fat combinations and water.
The system consists of a network of vessels and nodes that carry the fluid in one direction directly to the heart. It has superficial and deep pathways; and there are over 600 lymph nodes in the whole body, with 160 in the neck alone.
The lymphatic system has many functions, including;
· Transporting lymph
· Maintaining protein cycle
· Maintaining fluid volume balance by assisting movement of incoming nutrients, information substances and clearing waste products
· Manufacturing and circulating immune response cells
· Assisting in tissue repair and regeneration
What is Integrated Lymphatic Drainage (ILD)?
It is a subtle hands-on therapeutic technique of working with the lymphatic system to enhance its activity and support the bodies healing process.
What are the effects of ILD?
There are many beneficial effects, including;
· Increased parasympathetic nervous system activity (relaxation response)
· Decreased pain locally
· Decreased congestion
· Increased local circulation
· Facilitates tissue repair
· Increased range of motion
· Increased circulating immune response
· Decreased inflammation locally
What does an ILD treatment look and feel like?
ILD is quite similar to massage therapy treatment, however, the manual technique focuses on the lymphatic system and thus requires a more subtle hands-on approach.
During a treatment you may feel many different things, such as;
· Increased awareness or “tingling” in specific areas
· Relaxation or tissue “softening”
· Decreased pain locally
· Increased urination
· Increased digestive “sounds”
· Tiredness or fatigue
· Headaches (if not hydrating enough)
Is ILD safe for everyone?
ILD is a safe and effective treatment for most people, however, there are a few situations where ILD would not be an appropriate treatment option, including;
· Untreated malignancy
· Acute infection
· Unstable thrombosis
· Congestive heart failure
· Kidney and liver dysfunction
When would you use ILD?
It can be used to treat a variety of injuries. For instance, if you have tissue repair, it can be improved with ILD. Some common injuries that would benefit from ILD, include;
· Lymphedema
· Sprains and strains
· Repetitive strain injuries
· Contusions
· Joint replacements
· Arthritis
· Bursitis
· Whiplash associated injuries
· Burns
Have more questions? Simply reach out to us and we’ll be glad to answer.