The lymphatic system (Courtesy of Marlene Alphonse)
Lymph entering a lymph capillary (Courtesy of John Ross)
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Lymphatics
The lymphatic system of our bodies serves many functions. It removes interstitial fluid from tissues, it transports and absorbs fatty acids and fats from the digestive system, and it transports white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes and bones. Interstitial fluid, collected by the lymphatic system, contains dead cells, bacteria, toxins, inflammation, even cancer cells. Once collected by the lymphatic vessels, the fluid, now called lymph, is propelled unidirectionally towards the heart. The lymphatic fluid then flows through lymph nodes which contain white blood cells that kill off harmful micro-organisms like viruses and bacteria contained in the lymphatic fluid. The lymphatic system, in essence, cleans the space between cells (interstitial space) of unwanted molecules and fluids. Lymphatic Vessel Walls Contract Lymphatic fluid is returned to the heart through several mechanisms, including external tissue forces like skeletal muscle contractions and actual contractions of the lymphtic vessel walls. Lymphatic vessel segments, lymphangions, contract every 6-8 seconds pushing the lymphatic fluid through each successive one-way valve. The pumps are currently the focus of intensive research due to the association of lymphatic dysfunction with multiple diseases. |
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Lymphatic Dysfunction
Since lymphatic vessels are contractile, the possibility of a protective "vasospasm" must be examined. Lymphatic vessels, which are sensitive to inflammation and endotoxins can be stimulated to contract by the presence of these chemicals, narrowing the diameter of the lymphatic vessel which subsequently makes the lymphatic pump mechanism, less effective. This condition, called "lymphatic dysfunction," leads to fluid stasis and an accumulation of inflammatory chemicals in the involved tissues. So what are the clinical signs of lymphatic dysfunction? Patients with lymphatic dysfunction typically present with chronic muscle pain (myalgia) or chronic inflammatory conditions such as tendonitis or bursitis. They may also suffer from other fluid-related conditions, such as chronic sinusitis, migrane headaches or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Patients diagnosed with Lymes disease, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome also typically present with a significant amount of lymphatic tender points. Lymphatic Treatment Through Counterstrain
The Counterstrain approach to lymphatic treatment involves directly treating the lymphatic vessel wall when it presents with a diagnostic tender point indicating that the vessel wall or lymphangionis in a chronic state of contraction. As with all Counterstrain treatments, we use passive shortening of the involved structure, in this case, a lymphatic vessel segment, to correct the vasospasm. Once successfully treated, the lymphatic segment's "pump mechanism" is restored, allowing the lymphatic system to function normally, cleaning the area of chemical irritants. After receiving a lymphatic Counterstrain treatment, patients typically report immediate pain reduction. The treatment for hip bursitis, for example, literally drains the bursa of swelling which immediately improves the patient's hip mobility and his or her ability to lie on the affected side. |
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