Lymphedema is a condition in which excess lymph is unable to drain, and it accumulates in an arm, leg, neck, chest, or genital area. This condition is more common in those who have had treatment for cancer. Certain things, such as obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and older age, increase the risk of developing it. Swelling is one of the main symptoms, and in moderate to severe cases, the skin can thicken and feel heavy, which also reduces one’s range of motion. If you have lymphedema, you may benefit from physical therapy in Mount Vernon, WA.
Lymphedema Management Tips
There is no complete treatment for lymphedema. However, there are things you can do at home to help manage symptoms.
Minimize Infection Risk
One complication of lymphedema is that it increases the risk of skin infections. Without proper care, these can become serious. Take steps to prevent injuries, such as scrapes, cuts, and burns. Some recommendations include:
- Wear cutting gloves when using a knife
- Wear gloves when working in the garden
- Use hand mitts when around hot items
- Use an electrical razor
Also learn how to care for a wound to minimize infection risk.
Make Lifestyle Changes
A healthy body is better able to heal. Eat a diet full of vegetables and fruits, limit sugar, and avoid processed foods. Get enough sleep and keep stress to a minimum. If your lymphedema is mild, and you are able to move about freely, try to exercise four to five times a week, picking activities that you enjoy and do not make symptoms worse.
Seek Out Support
Living with lymphedema can be challenging, and it often helps to be able to talk with others who have it. There may be support groups in your area, or you may want to join an online chat group where people can share advice and support.
Reducing Swelling Safely
Another way to manage lymphedema is to locate physical therapy near me and request an appointment with a therapist who has experience working with lymphedema clients.
Lymph Drainage
One way your physical therapist will reduce swelling is by moving the excess lymph from the affected limb back to the body. This may be done using a light and gentle manual massage. Your therapist may also use a sequential pneumatic pump. If so, he or she will place a sleeve around the affected limb. A machine will inflate and deflate the sleeve in a sequential manner to drain the excess lymph.
Wear Compression Garments
Your therapist may recommend wearing compression garments at home or at work to reduce swelling. If so, he or she will take specific measurements so you can order the right ones for your needs.
Gentle Exercise
If you do not currently have an exercise program, or if your lymphedema is so severe that movement is difficult, Kirkland physical therapy can help. Your physical therapist will design a program that fits your physical capacities. If you are new to exercise, your therapist will demonstrate each move and observe you as you perform them to make sure you are doing them correctly.