Normal lymph circulation is maintained by contraction of skeletal muscles, respiration, contraction of the muscle cells in the walls of the lymphatic vessels, and changes in position. If lymphatic circulation slows down too much the regeneration of cells becomes less effective. The resulting accumulation of toxins, proteins, and waste products accumulate around the cells and can lead to necrosis (cell death) of the surrounding tissues.
Lymph movement can become inhibited for many, many reasons.
A few of those are:
1. Muscular Dysfunction – Most lymphatic vessels are located between skeletal muscles. If the muscle is not working properly, through overuse or injury, the lymphatic system cannot move the lymph fluid properly. Trauma to the body can damage lymphatic vessels
2. Gravity and obesity – acting in opposition to lymph flow. Excess fat can put pressure on lymph nodes and vessels and effect drainage
3. Lack of Activity – muscles pump lymphatic circulation, so inactivity can lead to edema
4. Excessive edema from traumas by injury or surgery
5. Infections – such as cellulitis
6. Tumors – can block lymphatic drainage
7. Chronic inflammation – can cause increased leakiness and reduce functionality
8. Stress – excess cortisol can impede lymph flow
9. Emotional shock – am excess of cortisol can impede the flow of lymph and lead to a breakdown of lymphatic tissue
10. Heart Conditions – CHF and other heart issues can lead to lymphedema
11. Age – lymph nodes become less effective at filtering lymph vessels, and they degenerate with age. The muscle walls of the lymphatic vessels become thinner and lose muscle cells with age, which affects the strength and rate of contraction and makes it harder for the valves to close properly.
12. Radiation Therapy – used to kill cancer cells through high powered x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds
13. Tight clothing that obstructs lymphatic vessels and lymph flow
14. Surgery – surgical removal of lymph nodes can cause lymphedema