lymphodema

The Australian Academy of Tai Chi & Qigong

Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley & Central Coast Region

LYMPHODEMA AND TAI CHI

STIMULATION OF LYMPHATIC CIRCULATION.

The soft, circular, spiral, twisting, repetitive motions of Tai Chi are ideal for encouraging lymphatic circulation through use of the “Muscle Pump” system. This moves lymph fluid away from congested areas back towards the body torso. The deep diaphragmatic breathing also helps to stimulate lymphatic drainage by circulating lymph within the body torso. That is deep breathing moves lymph fluid into the Thoracic duct on its return to the Venous angle where the lymph fluid reconnects with the venous system.

JOINT MOBILITY.

Tai Chi uses a wide range of movements that require full rotation of joints, without force, in a slow gentle manner. This helps increase balance and co-ordination and maintains the joint range of motion helping to improve the quality of life of the LYMPHODEMA student.

CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS.

The bent knee position of Tai Chi used in the Academy has a cardiovascular loading of around 60 to 80 percent. This is an ideal level for developing the cardiovascular system without risk or fatigue.

RESPIRATORY FITNESS.

In teaching Tai Chi in the Academy the proper use of the lung diaphragm in breathing is emphasised. The student is also corrected in posture so that the lungs are not compressed and taught how to release muscular tension in the shoulders, chest, back and abdomen that might otherwise restrict breathing. The effective vital capacity of the lungs is thereby increased. Breathing deepens and slows, which not only stimulates the relaxation response, but also makes the breathing much more energy efficient. Both of these aspects are important to those with MS.

REACTIVE DEPRESSION.

Those with LYMPHODEMA are susceptible to depression (which we term reactive depression). Exercise, generally, has been shown to have a positive effect on depression as has meditation. The meditative movement techniques in Tai Chi are thus particularly beneficial for the LYMPHODEMA student.

SLEEP.

Disturbed sleep patterns can aggravate fatigue. Exercise, generally, has been shown to be beneficial provided it is non-exhaustive in nature. Again the breathing and meditative techniques in Tai Chi can also help.

BODY TEMPERATURE.

Since elevated body temperature tends to aggravate LYMPHODEMA exercise like Tai Chi that does not involve overly vigorous exercise is ideal.

BONE HEALTH.

Tai Chi is a standing weight bearing exercise that is very effective in maintaining bone density and countering osteoporosis.

STRETCHING.

Stretching and other exercises are often effective in assisting the movement of lymph fluid and reducing odema. Tai Chi uses what is known as the double stretch technique. Rather than straighten a joint a limb is simultaneously moved outward and withdrawn. That is flexors and extensors are used in gentle opposition. This bunches the muscles lengthening the tendons and ligaments without risking the joints. The nature of the movement is particularly suitable for the movement of lymph. Both of these are ideal situations for the LYMPHODEMA student.