Treatments For Lymphedema

By Ann Haynes, PTA

La Plata Physical Therapy, Inc.

. http://laplatapt.com/

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Treatments For Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic and incurable condition resulting in the swelling of one or more body parts. Swelling occurs due to the body’s inability to drain lymph fluid from the tissue. The most common cause of this condition is breast cancer and its treatment. The National Cancer Institute reports 50-70% of lymphedema cases develop after axillary treatment.

Though cancer is the most common cause of lymphedema, it may be caused by trauma, infection, chronic venous insufficiency, obesity, and can even be self-induced. Lymphedema may be incurable, but it is manageable.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to the successful management of lymphedema. A patient might feel tightness, fullness, heaviness, or pain in a limb before the increased swelling occurs. Beware of these symptoms if you are someone at risk for lymphedema and notify your doctor if you present any of the symptoms mentioned. Once diagnosed, treatment may begin with a certified lymphedema management specialist. Seeking treatment from someone who is certified in lymphedema therapy will ensure you receive the best treatment possible. Treatment consists of manual lymph drainage (MLD) (which is a type of massage to encourage fluid movement to unaffected side for filtration), compression bandaging, remedial exercises, and meticulous skin/nail care. Once done with clinical treatment, instructions in self-care will be given.

Treatment takes a commitment by the practitioner and patient. The treatment phase will last at least two to four weeks, or longer depending on the severity, with the patient receiving treatment five days a week. The goal of treatment will be to decrease the size/volume of the affected limb to the smallest possible size. Once the desired result is achieved, the lifelong maintenance phase will begin. Maintenance consists of wearing a compression garment, performing self MLD, continued skin/nail care, as well as continuing a home exercise program. The maintenance phase is critical as reductions gained during treatment may be lost.

Treatment of lymphedema is imperative. If left untreated, complications such as recurrent infections, decreased range of motion, pain, cosmetic, and psychological issues may occur. Early identification with treatment can help people suffering from lymphedema maintain their quality of life. Lymphedema treatment is covered under Medicare, most managed care organizations, and most private commercial carriers.

Informational resources available regarding lymphedema include National Lymphedema Network (www.lymphnet.org), National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov), and City of Hope Lymphedema Foundation, Inc. (www.lymphedemacircleofhope.org).