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About LymphedemaLymphedema
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a collection of protein-rich lymphatic fluid, usually in the arm or leg. Which accumulates within the soft tissues. It is caused by interruption of normal lymphatic flow which can be due to surgery, radiation, infection or trauma.
What causes it?
With normal lymphatic flow, the amount of fluid going into the arm or leg is equal to the fluid that is going out. In lymphedema, the amount of fluid going in is greater than the amount that can go out because of the damage to the “transport system”.
What are the signs and symptoms?
- Swelling (gradual or sudden)
- Taut skin and feeling of heaviness in the affected area
- Complaints such as a tingling or prickling sensation
- Pitting edema, that is, gently pressing on the affected area leaves an indentation
- The skin on the 2nd toe can’t be lifted with two fingers. Instead, it feels firm and tough (Stemmer’s sign).
- The natural skin folds on the toes and fingers are severely deepened.
- Hardening of the affected area (fibrosis)
- Reddening as a result of severe infections such as erysipelas (St. Anthony’s fire)
How is lymphedema treated?
A treatment plan is based on evaluation by the therapist. It may include one or more of the following elements:
- Skin care: Avoidance of injury and infection, good hygiene and proper moisturization is very important. We will teach you proper skin care.
- Massage: Two basic types of massage are used to treat lymphedema. Manual lymph draining is a precise and gentle form of massage that helps mobilize the fluid and direct it to other pathways. Soft tissue mobilization (or myofascial release) is a type of massage used to release scar tissue and other tightness that might be contributing to the swelling.
- Exercise: You may be instructed in stretching exercises to loosen up the tissues in the region or specialized exercises to help move the fluid out. You will be given written instructions for these exercises.
- Bandaging: This is a precise technique which uses cotton short-stretch bandages to apply constant pressure on the limb. Bandaging is done in combination with manual lymphatic drainage.
- Compression Garments: These are elastic fabric garments similar to a girdle or support stocking that apply pressure to the arm or leg to help move fluid out and keep new fluid from collecting.
