The functioning of the lymph nodes and immune system are intertwined and when a blockage occurs, it results in a condition known as lymphedema that causes swelling in the arms and legs. Lymphedema can affect any part of the body. It occurs most commonly as a result of damage to, or removal of the lymph nodes due to cancer treatment. Lymphedema may not occur for months or even years after patients have undergone cancer treatments. Individuals with lymphedema may be referred to a physical therapist who has received specialized training in therapy for Lymphedema treatment and management.
The body’s lymphatic system is responsible for filtering wastes from the body, but with lymphedema the lymph nodes are unable to drain fluids properly leading to a build-up of toxin-filled fluids.
Symptoms are often overlooked by patients since they don’t appear immediately. There’s no cure for lymphedema, but it can be managed with physical therapy and early identification and diagnosis is the key.
There are two types of lymphedema: primary and secondary. The first is caused by rare inherited conditions that include Milroy’s disease, Meige’s disease and late onset lymphedema after the age of 35. The second and more common form is a result of cancer and the radiation treatment associated with it. Secondary lymphedema may also occur as a result of scar tissue, history of multiple surgeries or obesity.
Signs and Symptoms
Swelling in the arms and/or legs is the primary symptom of lymphedema that extends to the toes/fingers. Swelling may be mild and barely noticeable, but at the other end of the spectrum is extreme swelling that prevents use of the limb. The affected body part feels heavy and skin feels tight, producing discomfort and achiness. Recurring infections are common, along with thickening and hardening of the skin.
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Management Therapies
Physical therapy techniques focus on reducing and controlling symptoms, pain relief and alleviating future episodes. The physical therapist may utilize a gentle non-tiring exercise, clinical Pilates, yoga and therapeutic massage to help drain fluids. Specialized wrapping techniques may also be utilized to direct fluid so it can be eliminated from the body.
Patients may also benefit from pneumatic compression and compression garments, but those methods can’t be used on individuals with blood clots, infections or congestive heart failure. To treat patients with those conditions, specialized manual lymph drainage is utilized.
Depending on the patient, low-level laser therapy may be an option. It’s effective for stimulating the immune system, reducing tissue hardness, and reducing fluid build-up. While not available everywhere, it is effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Specially trained physical therapists can create treatment plans that focus on improving your overall comfort and the quality of your life. These techniques may include hands-on treatment, an exercise program to help increase muscle strength and education in proper skin care and protection of the affected area.
