Lymphatic Pump

The lymphatic pump is a method of manipulation used by physicians who practice manual medicine (primarily osteopathic physicians and chiropractors) to increase the rate of lymph flow in order to help fight infection.

The lymphatic pump can also refer to the flow of lymph from peripheral tissue to central lymph ducts, preventing backflow. The flow of lymph from extracellular fluid (ECF) to peripheral lymph capillaries is mediated by overlapping endothelial cells which slide aside when facing higher interstitial pressure, and contracting when the lymphatic pressure is higher. The flow of lymph from the peripheral, via vasa lymphatica and lymph nodes and then to trunci, finally ending up in ductus thoracicus or ductus lymphaticus dx, is at least partially mediated by contracting muscle fibers.

Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system is not closed and has no central pump. Lymph transport, therefore, is slow and sporadic. Despite low pressure, lymph movement occurs due to peristalsis (propulsion of the lymph due to alternate contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle), valves, and compression during contraction of adjacent skeletal muscle and arterial pulsation.