How LymphaTouch is used in high-performance sport

During exercise, the lymphatic system plays a fundamental role in regulating tissue volume and pressure by returning fluid and plasma from the interstitial space to the circulatory (cardiovascular) system (Lane, Worsley, Mckenzie, 2005).

Since about 70 percent of the body's fluids are in the lymphatic system, it's easy to see why its function is crucial for restoring fluid balance. I have found LymphaTouch extremely useful for supporting and speeding up recovery, and for keeping athletes ready to perform, whether on the field or in the gym.

The mechanical decompression (also called negative pressure) produced by the device can stimulate lymph uptake and speed up the removal of accumulated fluid. For daily muscle care and maintenance, LymphaTouch is one of the most effective tools available to sports performance professionals: used regularly, it can promote regeneration and help prevent overload and chronic damage.

In my own practice, I mainly use the stationary technique and the sliding technique at different pressure values.

With the stationary technique, the treatment cup is held over specific muscles and areas for 3 to 5 pulses. With the sliding technique, the cup is slid over the target muscles and areas.

My protocols with athletes are as follows.

1) Stationary technique

• Pressure: 260 to 290 mmHg
• Use: after strength training in the gym that includes both concentric/eccentric work and extensive or fast-paced running drills.

2) Sliding technique

• Pressure: 290 to 330 mmHg
• Use: after intense speed and strength sessions with plenty of eccentric contractions, decelerations and change-of-direction drills. The aim is to support lymphatic drainage and redirect the increased fluid caused by micro-tears from eccentric contractions.

LymphaTouch can also help therapists support myofascial treatment. Here, the other two available techniques, lift-and-rotate and the combination technique, can have a significant effect on tissue quality and improve range of motion and overall muscle health.

Written by Antonio Robustelli, High Performance Consultant.