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Lymphedema Treatment at Quinn Physical Therapy
What is lymphedema?
Worldwide, an estimated 140 million people are affected by lymphedema, an abnormal swelling of a body part caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid (lymph) in the tissue spaces. Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic flow is restricted due to damage to lymph nodes or vessels, when nodes or vessels are inefficient, or when they are absent/ surgically removed. Lymphedema usually occurs in a limb, but may be present in the face, head, or trunk.There are two types of lymphedema – primary and secondary.
- Primary lymphedema occurs when there is a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system causing lymph nodes or vessels to be inefficient or absent. Onset of primary lymphedema can occur at birth (congenital), during adolescence(praecox), or after age 35 (tarda).
- Secondary lymphedema can occur during surgery (especially with lymph node removal or cancer surgery), radiation, trauma or infection. The most common cause of lymphedema in the United States is surgical removal of lymph nodes in cases of breast cancer surgery. Lymphedema can often take months or even years to develop after cancer treatment.
Symptoms of lymphedema
Lymphedema symptoms can include any or all of the symptoms listed below- Feeling of limb heaviness
- Persistent swelling
- Discomfort in joints
- Reoccurring infection in affected area
- Significantly increased limb size with reduced range of motion
- Fibrosis of the tissue
- Chronic ulceration/wound
Preventative measures for those at risk:
- Avoid extreme temperatures such as hot baths, hot tubs, saunas.
- Avoid infections caused by insect bites, manicures/pedicures, vaccinations, pet scratches, skin cuts or punctures.
- Reduce salt intake.
- Make healthy lifestyle choices.
Treatment for Lymphedema
There is presently no cure for lymphedema, but here at Quinn Physical Therapy we can provide effective treatment for managing its symptoms. With our certified Lymphedema therapists, you will receive expert care to achieve the best possible outcome. In order to maintain the reduction achieved we can provide custom fitted garments and also assistance with obtaining a home vasopneumatic pumping device, if deemed necessary. The treatment plan depends on the cause and the individual needs and medical history of each patient. The most effective treatment today is manual lymph drainage/complete decongestive therapy (MLD/CLT). This is a blend of manual techniques, exercise, compression therapy and skin care. The initial phase of therapy is intensive and consists of- Manual lymph drainage: manual stretches of the skin designed to increase the efficiency of the lymphatic system and re-route fluid around blocked or damaged areas.
- Compression therapy: use of short stretch bandages and specialized compression garments to prevent refill of fluid, maintain reduction of the extremity and increase the efficiency of the “muscle pump” in moving fluid out of the extremity.
- Decongestive exercises: specialized exercises performed with compression bandages or garments, designed to improve lymph production and lymphatic flow.
- Skin and nailcare: important techniques using specific cleansers and moisturizers to maintain proper hygiene, promote good skin integrity and eliminate or prevent infection.
