March is....

Lymphedema Awareness Month

Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial tissue that causes swelling, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired, or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed.

When the impairment becomes so great that the lymphatic fluid exceeds the lymphatic transport capacity, an abnormal amount of protein-rich fluid collects in the tissues of the affected area. Left untreated, this stagnant, protein-rich fluid not only causes tissue channels to increase in size and number, but also reduces oxygen availability in the transport system, interferes with wound healing, and provides a culture medium for bacteria that can result in lymphangitis (infection).

Symptoms of Lymphedema
- Full sensation in limb(s)
- Skin feeling tight
- Decrease flexibility in hand, wrist, or ankle
- Persistent swelling in a specific area
www.lymphnet.org

PHYSICAL THERAPY
While there is no cure for lymphedema, the condition can be managed through a combination of early detection, clinical treatment, education, and home management. In the early stages lymphedema, when very mild swelling is present, the condition is managed by compression garment wear, exercise, and elevation. If the condition progresses, physical therapist management may include: - manual drainage to help improve the flow of lymph from affected arm or leg

- compression garment wear following lymphatic drainage

- skin care, such as cleaning the skin or the arm or leg daily and moisten with lotion

- exercise to improve cardiovascular health and help decrease swelling in some cases

- patient education, instruction in proper diet to decrease fluid retention and how to avoid injury and infection.

- garment fitting

Here at our office we provide lymphedema management of non-invasive, painless, and effective procedures. We can help you live happy, healthy, and active!