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, like 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. Lymph accumulates, resulting in swelling, 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.
#KinesioTaping is used by some therapists to help to reduce oedema and swelling - by opening lymphatic pathways. Drainage is achieved by using specialised application techniques. The tape may help to increase the space in which lymphatic fluid flows, resulting in decreased pressure and irritation on neural/sensory receptors. Lymphoedema therapists who use Kinesio Taping as part of their treatment are best placed to assess your condition and show you how the tape is applies for your condition. Many patients using Kinesio Taping for lymphatic drainage, learn how to reapply the tape between clinic appointments so that their treatment is continuous.
Lymphatic applications using Kinesio Tape use a fan-cut technique which involves cutting a piece of tape into strips with an ‘anchor’ at the end. Therapists will cut the tape from a roll or use Kinesio pre-cut fan tape and apply the strips over the swelling and draw fluid back to working lymph nodes. You can use any tape from the Kinesio range to cut your fan application – the most popular tapes for this are FP and LightTouch. Rolls of tape and pre-cut fan packs can be purchased online on our website – www.kinesiotaping.co.uk or on our b2b website at - b2b.kinesiotaping.co.uk. Kinesio's 'Lymphoedema and Chronic Swelling' book is a great reference guide for therapists too.
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.
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