NEWS

Insights into the Functions of the Lymphatics

What you see in this video is the bolus of lymphatic fluid being sucked into the Subclavian vein.

The flow in the subclavian creates a suction force in the thoracic duct, assisting the rhythmic opening and closing of the bicuspid valve at the entrance of the thoracic duct.

One of the ROA faculty in Australia, Prue Eddie used this video to help with the perception and palpation of sucking forces in the vasculature which facilitate the flow in the lymphatics.

Since 2004 the Osteopaths teaching the ROA programme have been experiencing this and teaching ways to synchronise with and facilitate this function.

In this ultrasound we see a validation of the palpatory experience. It is another wonderful example of how modern diagnostic tools can be used to validate and quantify the clinical perceptions.

The rhythmic swelling and receding within the lymphatic vessels can be experienced in the tissues as an expression of primary respiration and these flow dynamics relate to the function of venous flow in the subclavian vein.

In the ROA2 programme students are extended to relate this function to the carina of the right atrium as an organiser of flow into the heart and lungs.

Michael Solano