March is National Lymphedema Awareness Month. At Virginian Rehabilitation and Wellness we have a wonderful team of Lymphedema specialists: Shirlea North, PT, DPT, CLT and Heidi Pena, PTA, LMT, CLT
To help increase awareness and understanding about lymphedema management, Heidi has written a great informational blog.
Lymphedema: What is it? And What You Can Do About it! By Heidi Pena, LPTA, LMT, CLT
First, let’s begin by distinguishing between edema and lymphedema. Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body’s tissues. It can be the result of medication, pregnancy, surgery, or injury and can often be relieved by applying ice and elevation of the limb. In addition, diets high in sodium can cause increased swelling in certain body parts such as your ankles, hands and/or feet. This type of swelling can be relieved by reducing the amount of salt in your food and/or by taking medications to help to remove excess fluid.
Lymphedema on the other hand, is a sign of an underlying disease existing all over the body or in entire limbs which requires professional treatment to address. Lymphedema results from the inability of the lymphatic system to perform one of its basis functions, the removal of water and protein from the tissues. This inability can be caused by developmental abnormalities of the lymphatic system called primary lymphedema, or by damage to the lymphatic system such as the removal or radiation of lymph nodes in cancer surgery or infection of the lymphatic system, which is called secondary lymphedema.
Lymphedema can be present in the extremities, head, neck, trunk, or external genitalia. The accumulation of protein and water in the tissues may come on gradually or suddenly. This high protein content can lead to complications such as hardening of the tissues, infections, and increased volume, especially if the lymphedema is untreated or mistreated.
Lymphedema is most commonly diagnosed after cancer treatments, since the surgical removal of lymph nodes and the use of radiation therapy are common treatments to prevent the cancer from spreading to other areas of the body. However, there are several other causes of lymphedema such as post-surgical, post-trauma, vein insufficiency, and hereditary. .
So, what’s the good news?!? Lymphedema can be controlled and even prevented!
If someone is deemed at risk of lymphedema there are a few recommendations to keep lymphedema from exacerbating.
Having a sentinel lymph node biopsy prior to surgery will help your surgeon identify how far the cancer has spread and which lymph nodes should be removed while helping to preserve remaining lymph nodes.
Performing range of motion exercises, massage, skin care, light exercises and acquiring education on techniques to stimulate the lymphatic system.
Being consistent with use of prescribed compression bandages, pumps or garments ie; stockings, sleeves will help prevent additional fluid from accumulating in the tissue.
Also remember you can consult with a lymphedema physical therapy specialist. They are specialized in complete decongestive therapy which incorporates a manual lymph drainage technique that specifically addresses the accumulation of fluid and assists in the movement of that fluid to a safe reduction size. They can perform a series of compression wrappings or provide specific compression garment recommendations to maintain the reduced limb size and prevent any further exacerbations.
You don’t have to suffer with lymphedema. We hope this article has given you some tools to help you better understand how you can manage and control your lymphedema. If you have additional questions or would like to consult with our Lymphedema team please feel free to give us a call.