My Extremity Is Swollen – Could It Be Lymphedema?

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My Extremity Is Swollen – Could It Be Lymphedema?

When people think about breast cancer treatments (or swelling), physical therapy probably isn't their first thought. However, physical therapy can play an important role in recovery from a mastectomy or lumpectomy.

A potential side effect of breast cancer surgery, vascular surgery, or diabetes is lymphedema, a painful swelling of the breast, chest, shoulder, arm, or hand. This can also occur in the lower extremities as well. A specialized type of physical therapy, known as lymphedema therapy, can help manage this condition.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is the accumulation of fluid that results when the lymphatic system is not working properly. Lymphedema is classified as either primary or secondary. Primary involves a lack of enough lymphatic vessels, believed to be present at birth. Secondary lymphedema may be caused by surgery (removal of lymph nodes), trauma, or radiation.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) includes

Patient Education The patient is educated on preventive measures, skin care, exercises, and self-management techniques.

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) A hands on technique performed by a therapist. Unlike traditional massage, it is designed to mobilize excess fluid from obstructed tissues and unblock lymph vessels, promoting proper lymphatic drainage.

Compression Bandaging A bandaging technique used to prevent return of fluid and to assist in the continuous flow of lymph through the pumping action of the muscles and lymph vessels.

Therapeutic Exercise Exercise assists in the mobility of the fluid, by the pumping action of the muscles. Also promotes flexibility, strength, and endurance.

Compression Garment Once the swelling has decreased an individually custom fabricated compression sleeve is used to maintain reductions in swelling.

This treatment not only manages the condition but teaches the patient self-care options as well.

If you suffer from chronic swelling within your arms/legs or abdominal area, seek help from a lymphedema specialist.