Lymph Basics
Main function of lymph fluid
To collect and transport excess fluid, waste, and immune cells back to the bloodstream.
Define lymph node
Small, bean-shaped filter that traps pathogens and debris while immune cells attack invaders.
Define lymphedema
Chronic swelling due to blocked or damaged lymph vessels.
Why light pressure?
Lymph capillaries are just under the skin, deep pressure collapses them.
What does “systemic infection” mean
An infection that has spread throughout the body, not just in one local area.
Two main lymphatic ducts
The thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct.
Location of thoracic duct
Runs along the spine and drains lymph from the left side of the body and both legs into the left subclavian vein.
Symptom of mononucleosis
Swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue, or fever.
Direction of lymph flow
Toward the nearest lymph nodes and ultimately toward the heart.
Why fever = no massage?
Fever signals active infection; massage could increase circulation and worsen symptoms.
What moves lymph through the body?
Muscle contractions, breathing, and body movement (since there’s no central pump).
Function of spleen
Filters blood, removes old red blood cells, and helps mount immune responses.
Massage consideration for lymphangitis
Absolute contraindication — avoid massage because it can spread infection.
One massage technique that aids lymph drainage
Rhythmic effleurage, manual lymph drainage (MLD), or gentle skin-stretch techniques.
What is a contraindication?
A condition or symptom that makes a particular treatment unsafe or inappropriate.
Name 3 lymph organs
Spleen, thymus, tonsils (also acceptable: bone marrow, Peyer’s patches).
How are lymph vessels similar to veins?
They both have valves, carry fluid one way toward the heart, and rely on movement and pressure changes to move fluid.
Two cancer types of lymph system
Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
How hydration affects lymph movement
Staying hydrated keeps lymph fluid thin and easy to circulate.
When to require medical clearance
For clients with cancer, lymphedema, autoimmune flare-ups, or post-surgical conditions.
Describe lymph capillaries
Thin-walled, one-way vessels just under the skin that collect interstitial fluid and allow it into the lymphatic system.
What is interstitial fluid?
The fluid that surrounds tissue cells; when collected by lymph capillaries, it becomes lymph.
When must massage be avoided entirely?
During active infection, fever, systemic illness, or untreated cancer.
When to modify vs avoid massage
Modify for stable, managed conditions; avoid with infection, cancer, fever, or acute inflammation.
Example of a local contraindication
Cuts, bruises, open wounds, skin infection, or localized rash.