What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a progressive yet manageable disease that more than 10 million Americans live with. Various conditions can have an effect on the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes are an important part of your lymphatic system.
Lymph fluid can accumulate in areas of your body if the lymphatic system has been injured or disrupted. This results in swelling of the affected body part or region. Swelling due to lymphatic compromise is different, as the fluid contains protein. Over time, swelling can become progressive if not ad­equately addressed.

What are the causes?

Lymphedema can occur when lymph vessels are not able to drain fluid. In the United States, the most common type of lymphedema is due to surgery and radiation treatment for malignancies (eg, breast cancer). Also, consider that if you develop an infection or have long-standing venous problems in your leg(s) lymphedema may develop.

Symptoms may include:

Swelling in the arm(s) and or leg(s) or other parts of your body
If both extremities are involved, one is typically larger than the other.
The severity of swelling may start out mild but can progress to severe over time
Skin can become hard over time
The skin may increase in redness, and infections may become more common
Body parts may feel uncomfortable and heavy
Clothing or jewelry may become tighter on the affected body part

Treatment: What to Expect

Certified lymphedema therapists (CLTs) are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of lymphedema. After performing a comprehensive evaluation, your extremities will be measured and treatment can begin. Lymphedema treatment is done in two phases. The first phase is the "intensive phase" led by the CLT. This involves skin, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging, and ex­ercise. During this time, you will be learning how to manage your lymphedema. Once the extremity reduces in size, the second phase, or "maintenance phase," of therapy begins. During this phase, you continue to manage/treat your condition on your own and wear compression garments during the day. The use of compression or a pump alone is not an effective means to manage lymphedema, as neither can address the protein-rich fluid on their own. We will provide the "gold standard" for successful treatment of Lymphedema which includes compression, bandaging, manual lymph drainage, and exercise.

Lymphedema Therapy Brochure