Have you ever felt like you’re trapped in a cycle of pain, no matter what you do? If you’re dealing with chronic pain, stay tuned as we’re exploring a little more about how the fascial system and the lymphatic system interact.
Essentially, these two systems are almost inseparable: one is the environment of the other. Both fascia and lymph are everywhere in our bodies, and are constantly shaping one another. Fascial restrictions can narrow and constrict the lymphatic vessels, and lymphatic congestion can produce abnormally thick, dense and rigid fascial tissue.
When we have fascial restrictions, whether from movement patterns or injury, the lymphatic vessels in the area are also affected. As the fascial layers adhere to one another, the lymph vessels are compressed in between, narrowing them and slowing the flow of fluid. Reduction in mobility also affects the opening of the valves in the lymphatic collector vessels, limiting the volume that the vessels can pick up from the surrounding tissues. And, if the fascial restriction affects our movement, that also reduces the “milking” effect of skeletal muscle contraction that helps move the lymphatic fluid through the vessels.
The effects can go in the other direction, too. Fascia can thicken and develop restrictions in an area of stagnant lymph or chronic inflammation: the congested fluid will limit the ability of the fascia to slide and glide over other fascial layers, organs, or structures in the area. Over time, that by itself can cause a fascial restriction.
Scar tissue, as well, affects both the fascial system and the lymphatics. A scar is a very obvious form of fascial restriction, but it also affects the lymph system. Anytime you cut into the skin, the superficial lymph vessels are damaged (many of the vessels are just below the surface of the skin). Generally speaking, these vessels do not regrow across scar tissue more than a millimeter thick. The lymph fluid in the area has to find alternate pathways, to reroute around the scar. These reroutes are often less efficient, leading to the potential for fluid buildup—and the possibility of developing further fascial fibrosity.
In order to get the best results, we need to address both halves of the equation: the fluid and the fascia are so completely intertwined that we often need to look at both. The synergy of treating both the lymph and the fascia can lead to significantly improved outcomes in reducing pain and improving the function of both systems.
If you’re eager to explore how these connections may affect your journey and what steps you can take toward relief, Contact Us!
We’ll dive deeper into strategies that could make a real difference in your day-to-day experience.