Get Lymphedema - Advanced Physical Therapy

Sitting or standing lift your swollen arm up to the side, as far as you can. Place a small ball into your armpit. Move the arm down and squeeze the ball. Repeat 10 times.

Start at the top of your leg. Place one hand on the inside of your leg and one hand on the back of your leg, without straining your wrist, hand or arm. Gently stretch and release the skin from the inside of your leg towards the side of your leg and up towards your hip. Shift your hands lower on your leg and repeat.

The recommended treatment for lymphoedema is decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT). DLT is not a cure for lymphoedema, but it can help control the symptoms. Although it takes time and effort, the treatment can be used to bring lymphoedema under control.

If you've had radiation treatment or a doctor had to remove one or more of your lymph nodes, you may experience something called lymphedema. Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just underneath your skin.

Avoid trauma or injury to the affected area. Avoid heavy lifting with the affected arm. No new tattoos in the affected area. Do not wear tight clothing, bands, shoes, or jewelry on the affected area.

Physical activity encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and Tai chi all might help to encourage the lymph to move. Pelvic floor exercises may also help. These target and strengthen the muscles in your pelvis.

Exercise is important for managing lymphoedema, because of the following reasons: It works your muscles, which increases the flow of lymph fluid and helps move it away from the swollen area. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce lymphoedema swelling.

Physical therapists work closely with you and other members of your health care team to help control swelling caused by lymphedema and meet your goals for returning to your activities.