The lymphatic system is a vital part of the body's immune system and is often overlooked. It plays an important role in our overall wellbeing by removing toxins, excess fluids, and waste from the body through lymphatic drainage. Without a properly functioning lymphatic system, our bodies would be susceptible to a range of diseases and illnesses. Understanding the mechanics of the lymphatic system and its importance to our health can help us take steps to protect and maintain it. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of the lymphatic system and how it affects our wellbeing.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is an organ system in vertebrates that is part of the immune system and complementary to the circulatory system. It consists of a large network of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, lymphatic or lymphoid organs, and lymphoid tissues.
What does the lymphatic system do?
The lymphatic system is our body's sewage system. It maintains fluid levels in our body tissues by removing all fluids that leak out of our blood vessels. It plays an important role in the absorption of fats from the intestine. The lymphatic system is important for the optimal functioning of our general and specific immune responses. Your body has between 400-800 lymph nodes that constantly monitor and filter the lymph to remove toxins, waste, and pathogens.
How does the lymphatic system affect our health?
The lymphatic system helps protect us from infection and disease. It is part of the body's immune system. It contains white blood cells called lymphocytes, which fight infection. It gets rid of any waste that cells make. When the lymph nodes are fighting infection, they often swell and become sore to touch.
Tips for keeping your lymphatic system healthy
- Movement, light massage, and breath work are all ways to keep the lymphatic system flowing.
- 1st Relief Pro devices such as the Compressive Pro and Compressive Pro Advanced devices are a great way to support the lymphatic system and stimulate lymphatic drainage using medical grade sequential air compressions. This type of therapy helps improve circulation, increase range of motion and aid in recovery.
The devices simulate active recovery techniques like manual lymphatic massage by gently compressing on the body’s contours in order to encourage smooth movement throughout the tissues for an even distribution of fluid, nutrients, oxygen and waste throughout your body. Pneumatic compression therapy with the 1st Relief Pro device is also helpful for improving immune system functioning by stimulating an increase in white blood cells which fight infections. Regular use of a pneumatic compression device can help reduce swelling, speed up recovery after intense workouts or injury and improve overall wellbeing by keeping your lymphatic system functioning optimally.