Lymphedema Therapy
Lymphedema treatment is focused on abnormal swelling of the tissues caused by stagnant, protein rich lymph.
This condition occurs when the lymphatic system has been impaired. Lymphedema can be classified into primary and secondary.
- Primary lymphedema is an inherited disorder resulting from missing or abnormal lymphatic vessels that cause swelling,
usually in distal regions of the limbs such as the hands or feet.
- Secondary lymphedema occurs when lymphatic vessels are altered as the result of surgical
intervention or radiation treatment or trauma.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Early recognition of lymphedema is essential as advanced lymphedema is more difficult to control.
The signs and symptoms of lymphedema may include the following:
- Full sensation in the limb or affected area
- Decreased flexibility
- Increased size of limb
- Tightness
Once lymphedema is identified, treatment is begun early, so patients can enjoy lives with few complications and little or no lifestyle restrictions.
Our professional and fully trained Physical Therapist at Andersen Physical Therapy will determine the appropriate treatment of signs and symptoms
related to lymphedema. Some treatment options include the following:
- Restoring function of the body part affected ( i.e. range of motion and strength).
- Education on skin care
- Manual lymphatic drainage-a specialized form of gentle massage that stimulates
and directs Lymphatic flow towards adjacent, functioning lymph systems
- Compressive therapy-the application of compression to the affected area which
aids in reducing edema and assists in the removal of lymph fluid 
- Exercise Therapy - A key component in stimulating venous and lymphatic flow.
Exercises are aimed at augmenting muscular contraction, enhancing joint mobility,
strengthening the limb and reducing the muscle atrophy that frequently occurs with lymphedema.
- Lymphedema can occur immediately postoperatively, within a few months, or years after cancer therapy.
With proper education and care, lymphedema can be avoided or, if it develops kept under control.
- Vaso-Pneumatic Device- a specialized air controlled device which functions by graded pressure from
distal limb to trunk in order to direct lymphatic flow.
FAQs regarding Lymphedema
What is the role of lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is responsible for the continual movement of fluid from the bloodstream
into the tissues and back into the bloodstream. It helps deliver nutrients to the cells and
removes waste from the cells. It is a system sensitive to filtration and reabsorption, both
balanced by hydrostatic pressure that forces water out, and osmotic pressure which draws
water into a solution. Its other main function is to protect the body from infection and disease
via the immune response. That swelling you see around a mosquito bite is the quick response of
the lymphatic system, working to correct this invasion. The lymphatic system is comprised of
lymph fluid, deep lymph vessels, and lymph nodes. The most important is the lymph nodes because
they serve as filters throughout the system. If the lymph nodes are not functioning normally,
harmful fluid can accumulate. Nutrients cannot effectively reach tissue, such as causing a buildup
of waste products. The resulting lymphedema can lead to discolorations and changes in the skin,
hardening of the tissues, infections and can limit function or mobility.
Is this another kind of swelling?
Swelling from a bruise, sprain, fracture or bug bite will resolve when the lymphatics are working
just fine. The lymphatics work very hard to remove this extra swelling. With the condition of lymphedema,
the lymphatics will first try its best to use the neighboring lymphatic vessels for transport.
If the lymphatics are compromised, "lymph stasis" the slower movement of the fluid, or overload occurs.
Swelling is not reduced in a reasonable amount of time. If the swelling disappears by morning but begins
to return after the limb is dependent, this may indicate the start of lymphedema.
How do I know if this is Lymphedema?
It is your physician who is responsible for making the diagnosis of lymphedema. You will provide your
physician with your medical history so that an extensive review can be done. Your physician may request
tests to rule out other problems that produce swelling.
