Most of us don’t give much thought to our lymphatic system– until something goes wrong. But it’s a really clever part of your body that works quietly in the background to help us stay well.
Here is a simple, friendly guide to what it does, why it matters, what happens when it needs a little extra support, and some fun facts.
What Is the Lymphatic System, Anyway?
Think of your lymphatics as your body’s clean-up crew. It helps clear the waste, and keeps your immune system ticketyboo, and moves a clear fluid called lymph around your body– Imagine the postman delivering immune support and being a litter picker at the same time and collecting up the rubbish as he goes.
It is made up of:
• Lymph Nodes– trapping germs and waste
• Lymph Vessels– Road networks for lymph fluid
• Other Stuff– like your tonsils, spleen and bone marrow that also work to help keep you well.
Fun Fact – If you laid out your lymphatic vessels end to end they would stretch for over 60,000 miles!
How Many Lymph Nodes Do We Have?
I was asked this question recently.
How many lymph nodes are in the human body? I always answer 600+ as it is always the number that sticks in my mind from different trainings I have done.
Anyway it made me come home and look further (as I was asked this question by a male this time)
Fun Fact – These are the variations in Lymph Nodes
Vodder – A specialised training programme 600-700
Stat Pearls/National Institute Health approximately – 800
A 2022 study (Damineni et al) – 450-700
Google – 600
My new answer should perhaps be the average person has between 500-700 nodes.
Most are grouped:
Fun Fact – You have about 160 nodes in your neck and up to around 40 in your armpit. Did you know that the size of the largest lymph node can vary from person to person 3-9mm average?
You won’t usually be able to feel lymph nodes unless your body is fighting an infection– or if some have been removed due to cancer treatment.
What Can Affect The Lymphatic System?
Like any part/system of the body, your lymphatic system can get sluggish or overloaded. Things that might compromise it include:
• Infections and illness
• Surgery (especially cancer related surgery)
• Radiotherapy
• Scars and injuries ( these can block lymph flow)
• Not moving enough (your lymph system relies on movement to work)
What Happens If Lymph Nodes Are Removed?
Sometimes, surgeons will need to remove lymph nodes, like when checking if cancer has spread.
If lots are removed from one area (like the armpit or the groin), the lymph fluid may not drain as easily.
This can cause swelling– a build up of fluid that can feel tight, heavy and look puffy and increase the risk of lymphoedema– a chronic condition. Not everyone gets lymphoedema, but it is good to be aware and look after the area.
There are some great ways that you can help yourself:
• Special massage techniques (Manual Lymphatic drainage)
• Gentle movement or exercise
• Skin care and being careful about infection
• If you have been advised to wear compression garments, using them as you have been shown.
Fun Fact – After lymph node removal, you are going to need to move a bit more to help your lymphatics– the thing is, after surgery and when feeling unwell we tend to move less which can cause swelling.
How Can You Help Your Lymphatic System?
Here are a few simple ways to give your lymph some TLC
• Move– everyday, even just a short walk
• Breathe– deeply, yes even your breath will help pump the lymph
• Drink enough water
• Look after your skin, scratches, bites and burns can tip the balance in a compromised lymph system
• Gentle stretch exercises like Pilates, Yoga and getting on a small trampoline/trampet for a bit of fun bouncing/rebounding
• If you have had surgery or radiotherapy it is important to follow the advice given in caring for the area properly.
Remember: Your lymphatic system is pretty amazing, quietly working away to keep you healthy. When it needs support, a little bit of awareness and TLC can go a long way. Whether you have had lymph nodes removed or want to look after your wellbeing, there are so many things you can do. Just knowing a little bit about how things work is powerful, you have things to try yourself. Remember to reach out for expert help or some extra TLC when needed. Manual Lymphatic drainage is not just useful for lymph it is also very relaxing!
Please get in touch if you would like to do some guided movement or breathing exercises or you would like to book a Manual Lymphatic Treatment. fi@therapyinmotion.co or call 07767384983