The lymphatic system is a critical part of our circulatory system and immune system as it is responsible for eliminating toxins, waste, and excess fluid as well as moving white blood cells around the body to fight infection. Unlike the circulatory system where the heart acts as the pump, the lymphatic system only moves one way— upward and away from gravity. As the lymph system tries to fight gravity, it can become clogged. Too many toxins are a primary factor, while poor diet and overexposure to environmental toxins can overload the lymphatic system. In addition, lack of sleep, dehydration, stress, emotional trauma, infections, and lack of movement can stagnate and sometimes even stop the lymph flow. When the system becomes clogged, swelling (or lymphedema) usually occurs and if toxins can’t be eliminated from the body, cells can’t properly function resulting in dysfunction and disease within the body. If the lymphatic system is compromised, the immune system is compromised. Inflammation can occur and when chronic lymphatic congestion occurs, it can contribute to autoimmune conditions.
Here are the 19 symptoms of a clogged immune system:
- Swelling in your fingers (rings fitting more tightly?)
- Feeling stiff and sore when you wake up in the morning
- Cold hands and feet
- Brain fog
- Chronic fatigue
- Depression
- Bloating
- Excess weight
- Food sensitivities
- Digestive issues
- Dry or itchy skin
- Sinus infections
- Frequent colds and flu
- Weakened immunity
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Allergies
- Unexplained injury and illness
- Constipation
- Parasites
What Can You Do To Get Your Lymphatic System Moving Again?
There are many approaches to help get the lymph fluid flowing again, such as starting to move again (exercise), avoiding sitting or standing for extended periods of time, dry brushing, eating a more “clean” diet, incorporating red raw foods like beets, cherries, cranberries, pomegranate, berries, and simply breathing and laughing! Yes-breathing and laughing! Another common suggestion is to not wear tight fitting clothing. Men might want to consider moving to boxers at least some of the day while women should be careful not to wear a bra and underwear 24 hours a day.
However, often these lifestyle changes haven’t been enough. Lymphatic enhancement therapy is available to unclog the pipes and get your lymph fluid and detoxification moving again. I personally have made lymphatic enhancement (or compression) therapy a part of my health regimen for years!
What is Compression Therapy?
Pneumatic Compression stimulates the venous and lymphatic flows by using sequential pressure massage. Developed in Poland, the BOA MAX 2 device is the only device in the world that uses algorithms based on Vodder’s manual massage method. It uses air pressure to “squeeze” your body and pump fluids.
When activated, the pump fills the air chambers of the compression sleeves to pressurize the tissues forcing fluids, such as blood and lymph, out of the pressurized area. When the sleeves deflate, the veins will replenish with oxygen and nutrient rich blood. By gently applying unidirectional peristaltic pressure on peripheral veins, it improves blood flow and heart function by reducing artery flow resistance. The lymphatic fluid is pumped against gravity and moved through the filtration process in the lymph nodes. Lymphatic flow is improved in both the peripheral and deep lymph nets, resulting in improved elimination of metabolic waste from the interstitial spaces. It can produce faster removal of the toxins, metabolic products and excess fluid by widening lymphatic vessels. The peristaltic movement relaxes the muscle and drains excessive fluids that are a product of muscle activity.
Here is a list of just a few of the benefits of lymphatic enhancement therapy:
- Reduction/Elimination of the 19 symptoms listed above!
- Decrease in Lymphedema and excess fluid retention
- Accelerates recovery from injury and surgery
- Immediate relief of “heavy legs”
- Decreases athletic recovery time
- Reduction/elimination of cellulite
- Improved shaping of legs, abdomen, buttocks and arms,
- Strengthens loose skin (from pregnancy or obesity)
- Prevention of varicose veins
- Reduction in edema from upper limbs, chest and back after mastectomy
- Improvement in immune system function
- Improved bowel movements
- Calms muscle spasms
Who Can Benefit From Compression/Lymph Therapy?
Although the benefits of compression therapy speak for themself, individuals with the following health needs/conditions can especially benefits from compression therapy:
- Athletes or anyone with “tired” legs looking for recovery
- Injury recovery
- Post-surgery recovery
- Recent mastectomy
- Anyone interested in reducing/preventing cellulite
- Thinning tightening of skin (obesity, post pregnancy)
- Chronic vascular issues
- Lymphatic congestion
A clean diet, movement, adequate sleep, hydration, and stress management are all important components of maintaining good lymphatic flow, but alone, often aren’t enough. Consider adding compression therapy to your health regimen to ensure the proper elimination of toxins, waste products and excessive fluid to restore and maintain your health.
Offered at our Wayne office, you can experience the benefits of Compression therapy for only $25 for your first visit. Afterwards, our team is happy to make recommendations on the best treatment plan for you and your health goals.
Any other questions? Dr. Gray and RHLC’s team are happy to answer any questions that you may have. Call our team today: (610) 341-9300
