Debunking Lymphatic Myths

The lymphatic system experienced its 15 minutes of fame within the last couple years, and for a while there it seemed like every health and wellness influencer was talking about it. While I love that the lymph system is finally getting the attention it deserves, this new wave of awareness also brought a wave of misinformation about what the lymphatic system is, what it does and how to work with it. I’ve collected the top 10 most misunderstood aspects of the lymph system and lymphatic drainage that I’ve heard from clients, friends and others in my life. Hopefully this gives you a clearer understanding of the lymphatic system and helps you think more critically about information that’s out there.

To detox means to remove harmful substances from the body.

Our bodies detox through peeing, pooping, breathing, and sweating.

The lymphatic system is a closed system that transports fluid from the tissues to  the bloodstream, filtering it and breaking down harmful substances along the way.

Once lymphatic contents get dumped back into the bloodstream, waste products get sent to the kidney or liver for further processing and eventual excretion.

While the lymphatic system does help in the breakdown of potentially harmful substances, it doesn’t rid the body of anything. It’s just a step along the way.

MYTH BUSTED: The lymphatic system can be thought of more as a second circulation system than a detox system

Because cancer can spread through the lymphatic system and affect lymph nodes, it is a common misconception that manual lymphatic drainage or even massage can spread cancer.

However, the spread of cancer is much more complex than rogue cells floating through the lymph system and setting up camp wherever it lands. 

The spread of cancer has many complex biological factors: Tumor cell characteristics, immune function, vascular endothelial growth factors and various other chemical and biological aspects of the target organ.

In fact, healthy lymphatic flow can be very useful in the recovery from cancer, and  receiving manual lymphatic drainage supports circulation, waste removal from the tissues and recirculation of useful nutrients.

MYTH BUSTED: There is no scientific evidence that supports the claim that receiving MLD or massage can spread cancer

Many people are only used to paying attention to their lymph nodes when they notice that they are swollen when they get sick.

Because we have this association with sickness and swollen lymph nodes, many clients come to me with concerns of swollen lymph nodes or lymph nodes they can feel.

In most cases, having a swollen lymph node means that the lymphatic system is simply doing it’s job: fluid and white blood cells are filling the node, causing it to swell, and the swelling will go back down once the lymphocytes are finished doing their job.

Sometimes, even if a lymph node isn’t swollen, it can still be palpable through the skin. This is also completely normal. Lymph nodes are physical structures and are felt more easily on some bodies than others. 

If you notice that you can feel a lymph node, keep track of how it feels over the course of a few days and notice if there is a change. If there is consistent swelling that is getting worse, causing physical discomfort, or paired with other notable symptoms, then might be the time to visit a doctor to get it checked out.

MYTH BUSTED: Swollen or palpable lymph nodes are not immediate cause for alarm

Read the Rest of the Myths Here

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