With #Lymphoedema affecting around 100 million people across the world, but many people not knowing what the condition is or how it can affect people, we're reviewing the lymphatic system in today's post.
The lymphatic system is a network, similar to your blood system, of thin walled blood vessels that transport fluids of the body to the blood circulation. This system plays a fundamental role in the distribution of fluids and nutrients in the body, filtering out organisms that cause diseases, as well as generating antibodies. Lymph is an almost colourless fluid containing many white blood cells, which is collected from the tissues of the body and transported into the lymphatic system.
When lymphatic tissue or lymph nodes are destroyed, disturbed, or removed, the lymph cannot drain areas properly. Access lymph accumulates, resulting in swellings, which is one of the main characteristics of lymphoedema. Lymphoedema is a chronic disorder that can be described as the abnormal swelling due to the presence of excess lymphatic fluids within the tissues. This usually occurs when the lymphatic system malfunctions or is damaged and lymphatic fluids cannot drain as quickly as they are produced. In addition lymphatic fluids contain large amounts of protein which makes the body easily susceptible to infections. It is mostly seen in the extremities of the body, such as the arms or legs, however it can also affect the trunk, breast, abdomen, neck and head.
Kinesio Taping is used by some therapists to help to reduce oedema and swelling - by opening up lymphatic pathways. Drainage is achieved by using specialised application techniques. The tape can help to increase the space in which lymphatic fluid flows, resulting in decreased pressure and irritation on neural/sensory receptors.
In conjunction with Kinesio Taping, Manual Lymph Drainage (a gentle massage technique) is often used. It's a series of rhythmic, light strokes in a specific sequence along the lymphatic vessels and surrounding tissues. These movements help reduce the swelling in the affected area and aid in returning lymph to the circulatory system.
If you're a therapist who works in this area and you've already completed our KT1/2 course, you may be interested in our KT3/4 course taking place in Kings Norton on June 15th and 16th 2019. If you've done one of our KT3/4 Lymphoedema courses in the past, it's also a great way to get refresher training and learn the latest techniques.
Our advanced KT3/4 training is designed to enhance your KT1/2 skills by introducing EDF (Epidermis, Dermis, Fascia) techniques and more complex clinical taping applications. Following the KT3 course you can also take the online exam to become a CKTP (Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner).
The KT4 Lymphatic course will address Kinesio Taping Methods for lymphatic and circulatory conditions of the upper and lower extremities. It will also address Kinesio Taping Methods for improving breathing, constipation, posture issues and other conditions that affect the lymphatic function. Advanced facial and scar management methods to improve lymphatic flow will be covered too, alongside advanced swelling management for the initial, collector, and deep lymphatics.
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