Lymphatic Drainage

The Chikly is one method of lymphatic drainage that gently mobilizes stagnate lymph system via discreet pathway mappings. Arrows here indicate the precise direction of the evacuation of lymphatic fluids.

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Key concept: Manual lymphatic drainage is a massage that evacuates stagnant lymph fluid away from tissues toward the heart and eventually the liver. Restrictions in the soft fascia and other connective tissue can hamper this and other circulatory systems. 

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The lymphatic system is a network of hundreds of large lymph nodes and countless smaller lymphatic chains and vessels that carry clear lymph fluid. This system continuously circulates lymph fluid to remove bodily waste and transport white blood cells in the daily inhibition of infection. Any obstruction in soft tissues can cause lymphatic fluid to stagnate. Bruno Chikly, MD, DO, is considered the modern physician-scientist who expanded our knowledge of the extensiveness of this system's anatomy map and specific lymph flow directions. The vagal system mediates lymphatic movements, and fluids are pumped grossly by the heart and locally by tiny muscles called lymphomas. Where swelling and edema exist, structural pressure backs up the lymphatic pathway, elevating sympathetic tone. The sooner edema is evacuated, the sooner the sympathetic tone in the area can release itself back to a relaxed state. Furthermore, clinical experience suggests that stagnant lymph fluid can spill into surrounding tissue creating the cellular basis for tissue adhesions (that may take months or even years to fully manifest).

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The term Lymph-Fascia Complex, a fusion of myofascial methods with lymphatic drainage methods are perfect skill sets in preparing to work to clear tissue. The lightness of non-invasive touch taught in these methods is perfect for non-invasive touch and help refine the skills of the bodyworker into feeling the precise and exact location of cellular debris.

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