Lymphedema
is a swelling of the arm or leg or other body part caused by an
abnormal build-up of protein and excess water in the tissue space. It
may occur after cancer or cancer treatments, such as the surgical
removal of lymph nodes or radiation.
Lymphedema can cause
discomfort, interfere with wound healing, and cause infections. It can
be a long-term problem, but can be managed.
Our Lymphedema
Management program seeks to improve the quality of your life and improve
your ability to manage your own health by:
- Reducing the size of the affected arm or leg
- Minimizing recurrence of lymphedema
- Decreasing pain, discomfort, numbness, risk of infection
- Providing education on how to manage lymphedema over a lifetime
- Minimizing psychological distress
Treatment will vary depending on the cause and degree of swelling.
As a rule, a combination of treatment methods is most effective.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage focuses on gently moving the skin to increase lymph flow from swollen tissues to healthy parts of your body.
- Wrapping the affected limb with low stretch bandages supports the swollen arm or leg to prevent return of the lymph fluid.
- Compression pumps which "milk" excess fluid from a swollen limb may be used for treating lymphedema in some circumstances.
- Compression garments are also used to help prevent and minimize the return of fluid.
- Skin care, breathing and arm or leg exercise is taught as part of our program.
- Techniques to manage psychological distress associated with lymphedema is also provided.
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