What is Lymphedema and How is it Treated?

By: Kate Hogue, PT, DPT

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What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema refers to an injury or issue with the lymphatic system that leads to excessive accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This fluid can build up anywhere in the body and result in swelling. Lymphedema is most often caused by cancer treatment such as lymph node removal or radiation therapy though some other common causes include surgery and venous insufficiency.

Someone with lymphedema will report that their affected limb is heavy or feels full or achy. When someone progresses through the later stages of lymphedema, they may experience changes to their skin such as hardening (fibrosis), discoloration, and/or the presence of a hanging flap of skin (lobule).

How is Lymphedema Treated?

If someone believes they have lymphedema, it is recommended they first see their doctor to rule out potential causes of swelling that would need more medical support. The doctor can then refer them to a lymphedema specialist. Though lymphedema currently does not have a cure, it can be managed effectively with comprehensive care. Through Sheltering Arms Institute, therapists with specialized lymphedema training implement Complete Decongestive Therapy, or CDT, which is considered the gold standard for managing lymphedema.

Complete Decongestive Therapy consists of four considerations/phases:

    1. Skin care: supporting and implementing wound care; promoting a healthy environment for the skin to reduce infection risk
    2. Manual lymph drainage: gentle manual stretching of the skin to move lymphatic fluid from blocked areas to healthy areas of the body
    3. Compression therapy: using multi-layered bandaging to create a pressure gradient that moves fluid out of the limb and prevents it from reaccumulating
    4. Exercise: assists in manually working lymphatic fluid out of affected limb

What Can I do to Help Manage My Lymphedema Symptoms?

Wearing some kind of compression is the key to long-term management. A patient undergoing treatment is likely to trial multi-layered bandages and progress to custom or off-the-shelf compression garments. Individuals in the earlier stages of lymphedema may benefit from elevating their limb to help reduce fluid from the limb. Additionally, keeping the skin clean will reduce the risk of infection and allow the body to respond most efficiently to the techniques utilized in Complete Decongestive Therapy.

Are There Lymphedema Support Groups Near Me?

If you live in the Richmond area, there is a local support group that meets the third Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the first-floor boardroom of Retreat Hospital at 2612 Grove Avenue, Richmond, VA. Those interested in learning more about this support group for individuals experiencing lymphedema can call (804) 270-9071 or email padonovan@comcast.net.

Sheltering Arms Institute offers a continuum of care to support individuals with lymphedema through inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation. If you’re interested in lymphedema services at Sheltering Arms Institute, call (804) 764-1000 or contact us at www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com/contact-us.

 

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