Lymphedema & Physical Therapy
Lymphedema is an abnormal collection of fluid, or edema, just below the skin. It commonly occurs in the arm or leg, but can occur in other parts of the body. It develops when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes are removed and can result when lymphatic vessels are impaired due to a hereditary condition.
Common causes include lymph node removal, injured lymphatic vessels, obesity, radiation, and infection.
Symptoms include:
Aching or feeling of heaviness in arm or leg
Repeated infections
Swelling in the arms, legs, hand, or feet
“Pitting” in the tissues of the limb: an indentation that is made by pressing a finger on the skin that takes time to fill in after the pressure is removed
Mobility limitations
Joint pain
Skin that feels tighter, harder, or thicker than normal
Lymphedema Physical Therapy Treatment
Lymphedema treatment reduces the chance of infection and improves mobility. At Mangiarelli Rehabilitation, our certified lymphedema physical therapist helps manage lymphedema using Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
CDT lymphedema treatment includes:
Manual lymphatic drainage to remove excess fluid from the affected area
Compression bandaging to prevent fluid from returning
Customized decongestive exercise program to improve lymph circulation and maximize functional ability
Education about the condition, ways to reduce risk, and self-management techniques
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system. The lymphatic system collects and transports fluids from all tissues of the body back to the venous system. The system absorbs and transports fatty acids from the digestive system.
The lymphatic system also plays a role in the immune system as it filters lymph to remove micro-organisms and other foreign particles to fight infection. Lymphatic tissues also build and store white blood cells and are located in the groin, underarm, and neck areas.
Lymphedema & Breast Cancer
Studies have shown that nearly one-third of women who have had a lymph node dissection due to breast cancer are likely to develop lymphedema. Some women fighting breast cancer may develop lymphedema due to radiation treatment.
Physical therapy can help breast cancer survivors manage lymphedema symptoms. Physical therapy also helps survivors regain range of motion after surgery and restore function and movement to affected areas of the body.