Lymphedema

Lymphedema is an illness that causes swelling of an arm, leg or other body part, due to an obstruction of the lymphatic vessels.  The lymphatic vessels are tiny thread-like vessels that carry fluid out of the body's tissues; back in to the blood circulation.   When the lymphatics are blocked, fluid builds up in that region of the body served by those lymphatics. 

The most common causes of lymphedema in women are surgery or radiation for breast cancer.  30% of women having treatment for breast cancer may develop lymphedema or swelling of the arm.  The most common cause of lymphedema in men is prostate cancer, which can cause swelling in the leg.

Sometimes lymphedema occurs at birth (congenital lymphedema) or can be diagnosed during the teen years (lymphedema praecox) or later on in life (lymphedema trada).  In this case, lymphedema is usually due to inadequate development of the lymphatic system. 

All types of lymphedema addressed above can be treated. 

There are now various treatment options for lymphedema, all of which contain 4 components.

1. Manual Lymph Drainage:  A light manual technique to increase the flo0w of lymph and interstitial fluids out of the affected body part.  Patients and their caregivers can be instructed in how to perform the technique.
2. Compression Therapy:  A special technique to wrap the affected body part following each MLD session.  This slows down production and accummulation of lymph fluid and keeps the swelling from returning. 
3. Skin Care:  The individual is instructed on good skin care and hygiene to decrease the risk of infections.  Specific Lymph-edema guidelines and precautions are also provided.
4. Exercise:  Specific exercises are developed by the therapist to assist in the lymph flow and its ability to return to the heart.  These are performed with compression garments in place to help with the flow of lymph fluid and improve muscle tone. 

Manual lymph drainage therapy is covered by most insurance companies when performed by a trained therapist.