Lymphedema Therapy

Lymphedema is swelling of a body part, usually your arm or leg, caused by an obstruction (blockage) of the flow of lymph fluid in your lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system can be compared to the circulatory system. It is a network of lymph fluid, nodes and vessels.

Lymph fluid is clear and colorless. It originates from tissue byproducts. This fluid travels through the vessels and nodes. It is composed of white blood cells, protein, water, cell debris, viruses and bacteria.

There are approximately 600-1000 nodes spread throughout the lymph system. They are bean-shaped and range in size from 1 mm to 1 cm. They are grouped closely together in the axilla, groin, head and neck. Their main function is to filter bacteria and viruses.

The vessels carry the fluid through the system and transport it to the heart where it joins the circulatory system.

There are two types of lymphedema, primary and secondary.

With Primary Lymphedema, we don't know the origin. We do know that it often becomes more severe with age and is more prevalent in the lower extremities.

Secondary Lymphedema is acquired through trauma or a disease that injures the lymphatic system. A person who has had breast cancer or had nodes under the arm removed, has a 35-40% chance of developing some degree of lymphedema. Since lymph nodes are present throughout the entire body, anyone having surgery or radiation treatments can get lymphedema.

There is no cure for lymphedema and no absolute way to prevent it. Fortunately, our treatments are very effective in managing lymphedema.

• Never ignore any increase swelling in the arm, hand, fingers or chest wall
• Avoid heavy lifting
• When doing difficult work, take frequent breaks
• Offer your healthy arm for blood pressures, blood withdrawals, injections and vaccinations
• Do not wear tight jewelry
• Wear long sleeves and gloves when doing housework or gardening
• Wear a compression garment on an airplane
• Use an oven mitt to avoid burns
• Use a deodorant that doesn't irritate your skin
• Use moisturizing cream freely
• Use insect repellent when appropriate
• Use sunscreen and avoid extreme temperature changes (no saunas or hot tubs)
• Don't cut your cuticles when manicuring nails

Treatment may include:

• Education about lymphedema
• Exercise
• Specialized bandaging and wrapping techniques
• Self massage
• Lymph drainage with light massage

Because it's an ongoing condition, the goal of treatment is to help you manage your lymphedema at home. A compression garment is usually given at the end of therapy to wear during the day. This garment needs to be replaced approximately every six months.

Yes, an arm with lymphedema is very susceptible to infection as the stagnated fluid has bacteria and viruses in it which can cause an infection.

Call your physicians and discuss with them.