The lymphatic massage is applied to cases of
primary (unknown etiology) or secondary (known etiology) lymphedema. In
the first case the lymphatic system, has little authority or greater
dysfunction from the beginning. On the other hand secondary Lymphedema
caused by the destruction of a normal lymphatic system. Such destruction
can be caused by the following:
- Surgery or treatment with radio
The most common cause of
secondary lymphedema is surgery or treatment with radio as a part of
treatment for cancer. Researches have shown that the combination of
surgical procedures and radiation therapy increases the risk of
developing lymphedema three times up, compared to surgical intervention
only.
- Removal of varicose veins
Since lymph vessels lay close to the blood system during a varicose veins surgery the lymphatic vessels may be damaged also.
During the liposuction not only fat cells are removed, but also minute lymphatic vessels.
Any extensive superficial trauma, which affected
large skin surfaces, could destroy the superficial lymphatic system
(e.g. extensive abrasions, injuries or burns).
Tumors, benign or malignant, can blog the lymphatic flow to vessels or to lymph nodes.
An infection of the lymph vessels and lymph nodes caused by virus, fungus, bacteria or parasites can cause lymphatic impairment.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Lymphedema may occur from chronic venous insufficiency.
Filariosis is a disease transported to man by mosquito