Physical Therapy Specialists Clinic, Inc.

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a permanent condition of chronic swelling, usually of an arm or a leg. This swelling is a result of damage to the lymph system, which may have either a genetic or mechanical origin.

The swelling in lymphedema is caused by an accumulation of fluid (composed of water and protein) in the tissues of the affected part of the body. Normally, this fluid would be returned to the circulatory system; however, when the lymph system is damaged, it is not able to move this fluid properly. This protein rich fluid accumulates and becomes stagnant causing swelling to appear.

Treatment

A successful lymphedema program, also referred to as Complete Decongestive Therapy, covers 5 areas of care:

Manual lymphatic drainage

Compression bandaging

Skin and Nail Care

Remedial exercises

Home Maintenance/education

If you have been diagnosed with lymphedema, your success in managing this condition relies heavily on how compliant your are with each of these components.

Many times when patients come to the clinic for treatment, they quickly learn how important it becomes to understand what lymphedema is and how crucial it is to participate actively in each of the five stages of treatment. At PTSC, we are committed to your success in decreasing the edema and improving your mobility and independence in self care skills.

Lyphedema treatment uses no drugs, has few side effects and can be learned by patients to perform at home. Call Physical Therapy Specialists Clinic today for more information at

1-877-926-5699.

Prevention

Once lymphedema appears it is permanent, however, the symptoms usually respond well to treatment and are manageable. With proper treatment, the individual with lymphedema does not have to experience disfiguring swelling or troublesome infections.

Lymphedema can occur immediately after surgery, more that 20 years later, or at any time in-between. With proper education and care, the onset of symptoms can be avoided, or, if they develop, kept well under control. It is important to follow these simple guidelines:

1. Never allow a blood pressure cuff or a needle stick on the at-risk limb (the limb on the same side of the body as the cancer).

2. Never ignore any unexplained swelling in the at-risk limb, even it if goes away after a short period of time. Lymphedema does not immediately become persistent, but treatment must be sought at the first sign of symptoms.

3. Never ignore any redness, rash, blistering or heat in the at-risk limb. Lymphedema is prone to becoming infected, and this may be the first sign of the onset of symptoms.

4. Do not wear anything that is tight, binding, or leaves marks on the at-risk limb.

5. Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous repetitive motions with the at-risk limb. Avoid any sudden impact to the limb.

6. Keep the at-risk limb spotlessly clean.

Unfortunately, prevention is not a cure. But, as a cancer and/or lymphedema patient, you are in control of your ongoing cancer checkups and the continued maintenance of your lymphedema.

For a complete set of guidelines, contact a Certified Lymphedema Therapist at PTSC.