Although most people are familiar with blood circulation in the body, few are aware of another equally vital system of circulation - the lymphatic system. After the skin, which is one of the body's physical barriers to infections, part of the first line of defence, this system plays a vital role in the other lines of defence, called the immune response. It includes various lymphoid organs, tissues and vessels and the clear, slightly sticky fluid called lymph.
This fluid is the means by which the lymphatic system picks up cell wastes, proteins, excess fluid, toxins, viruses and bacteria from the spaces between the cells so that they can then be filtered, cleaned and excreted. Application of this knowledge can be done via Manual Lymph Drainage - aiding the crucial role of the lymphatic system in protecting the body from infection, ridding it of waste products and maintaining correct fluid balance.
All Medical Professionals who fall under the following professional boards under the ambit of the HPCSA
Dietetics and Nutrition
Medical and Dental (and Medical Science)
Physiotherapy
Podiatry and Biokinetics
Occupational Therapy
Medical Orthotics
Prosthetics Radiology & Clinical Technology
Online Course
The following topics/modules are covered:
Lymphatic system - anatomy and physiology
Manual Lymph Drainage
On completion of this course, candidates will have enough of an understanding of the lymphatic system to be able to assess if they would like to do more advanced studying of the lymphatic system, and/or Manual Lymph Drainage
25 hour course (25 CEU's) accredited by both HPCSA and AHPCSA is currently being offered - see www.lymphatictherapy.co.za
10 MCQ's relating to the lecture
South African Society of Physiotherapy
PPB007/2024/01/016
1 General Point
Pass the assessment with 70% to obtain a certificate
An introduction to the lymphatic system, emphasizing application of Manual Lymph Drainage