Although there is 50% more lymphatic fluid in your body than blood, lymph is ignored or misunderstood by most people until they get sick. Lymphatic fluid is the interstitial fluid in the body and the lymph system filters it by moving it through lymph glands, or lymph nodes.  The lymph system is one of the primary mechanisms which enable your body to defend itself against harmful bacteria, fungus, viruses, and toxins of all kinds. (Also see "An Impaired Lymphatic System")

The lymph system itself is difficult for most people to identify. It includes:

• Lymph capillaries, lymph vessels, nodes, and ducts
• Lymph organs include lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and tonsils
• Lymphocytes and microphages in the lymph nodes serve as a filter for the lymph fluid (and fight infection, destroy micro-organisms and abnormal cells)

Inflammation is a symptom of stagnant lymph (usually referred to as lymphedema) and is a contributing factor to many of today’s common illnesses—everything from swollen ankles to compromised immune systems. The danger of lymphedema is painful swelling, lack of circulation, open sores, and infection in the part of the body where the lymph is most stagnant. 

This is an even more serious problem when the lymph nodes have been removed, as is typically the case with breast cancer survivors. Surgery, dissection, and damage from cancer treatments, such as radiation, can cause lymphedema in the limbs nearest the site of the cancer. This would be the arms for breast cancer and the legs for colon, ovarian, prostate, and testicular cancers.  

Lymphatic Drainage is an effective and non-invasive method to reduce inflammation by moving lymphatic fluid through your body—whether you have lymphedema, edema, or a general sluggishness from inactivity or diet. It is particularly effective for cancer survivors, using this therapy can reduce or eliminate the need to wear uncomfortable compression sleeves or suits. (Also see "A Rewarding Career in Lymphatic Decongestive Therapy")