By Alix Boyer, SPT

Lymphedema in the CT scan by DocHealer. Licensed under a CC BY-SA-4.0

The role of evaluation and treatment of lymphedema in physical therapy.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is an excess of fluid in the body’s soft tissues that is represented by swelling of a body part. It is most common in the arms and legs. The lymphatic system (vessel and nodes) role is to transport lymph fluid (contains infection-fighting white blood cells) throughout the body. In this case, it happens due to a build-up of fluid in the body caused by the lymphatic system not functioning correctly.

What causes it?

Primary Lymphedema: Rare and inherited condition caused by problems in the development of lymphatic system

  • Milroy’s disease: starts in infancy and causes abnormal form of lymph nodes
  • Meige’s disease: causes lymphedema during puberty or pregnancy, before the age of 35
  • Late-onset lymphedema: rare, occurs after the age of 35

Secondary Lymphedema: Due to damage to the lymph system during a procedure or due to a condition

  • Surgery: Removal or damage to lymph nodes as part of cancer treatment
  • Radiation treatment for cancer: can cause scarring and inflammation of lymphatic system
  • Cancer: can cause a blockage (tumor) in lymphatic vessels
  • Infection: can cause a restriction in the flow of lymph fluid

Prevention

Ways to prevent lymphedema:

  • Regular doctor checkup – regular limb measurements
  • Protect your arm or leg
  • Stay active to keep fluid moving
  • Keep limb clean
  • Avoid heat on limb
  • Elevate limb
  • Avoid tight clothing

Physical Therapy Treatment

Different treatment options are available. You should talk with your doctor and physical therapist to find the best option for you:

Manual Lymph drainage

  • Manual technique that helps move lymph fluid in the right direction to improve reabsorption by the lymph nodes

Compression garments

  • Used to apply continuous pressure to affected limb to force fluid back into lymphatic system and minimize swelling

Exercise program

  • Very important to keep active to help move fluid around

Patient education

  • Management of lymphedema
  • Skin and nail hygiene

Most often, a combination of treatments is used for the best outcome.

The physical therapists at Capital Area Physical Therapy offer treatment options for lymphedema in physical therapy. Call (518) 289-5242 or contact our physical therapy offices in Saratoga – Malta, or Queensbury – Glens Falls to schedule an appointment today.