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Step 1
Lymphedema is a blockage of the lymph system causing a swelling in a leg or arm. The swelling could also be in the trunk or genitals. The lymph system follows the circulation system and lies very close under the skin. Think of it as a net that covers your entire body under the skin. Injury, surgery, radiation, removal of lymph nodes can all cause lymphedema. folks with chronic lymphedema get frequent infections called cellulits and some even have wounds that won't heal. Sometimes even carrying a very heavy purse over your shoulder can cause swelling of the arm. Things that can "crush the lymph net" can damage the lymph system.
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Step 2
If you have swelling that does not go down at night please contact your doctor. If he diagnoses that you have lymphedema see a physical therapist or occupantional therapist that is lymphedema certified. If they are not lymphedema certified they can cause you more harm. You can find a certified therapist in your area by going to http://www.lymphnet.org/
or
http://acols.com/FindaTherapist.aspx -
Step 3
Once it is diagnosed that you have lymphedema this is how the treatment may ensue. Your therapist will take baseline measurements of your arm or leg. They will then do a light massage technique called manual lymphatic drainage therapy. It's a highly specialized type of massage that encourages the flow of lymph fluid through the system. A deep massage will do NO good for lymphedema. In fact it may further damage that lymph net.
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Step 4
The therapist will then put on some form of compression. It may be in the form of an elastic stockinette or it may be layers of wraps that encourage the flow of lymph fluids. These are called short stretch wraps. They look like ace wraps, but they are not ace wraps. These wraps are usually changed 3 times per week (could be more) and measurements are usually taken 1 time per week. Once there is no change in the circumference of your leg or arm for at least a week then you will be measured for a compression garment.
NOTE: Ace wraps should NEVER be used to treat lymphedema! -
Step 5
These garments are tight stocking-like thing that you wear during the day and take off at night. You must be vigilant in the wearing of these garments or your swelling will return and you will go through the whole process again.
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Step 6
So what if I don't get my lymphedema treated you ask? Well, the fluid that is sitting in your limb causing the edema or swelling has lot's of bacteria and protein in it. The stagnent fluid will turn into an infection called cellulitis. You will then have to take antibiotics for a few weeks. It will occur frequently if you don't get your lymphedema under control. You may also develop wounds, especially on the legs. So please if you have swelling that does not go away go see your doc and find a lymphedema certified therapist in your area to get the proper treatment.
