What the Swell? (Lymphedema Explained) By Amanda Lane
The facts: Lymphedema is swelling, typically in the arms and legs, due to an abnormal collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues just below the skin layer. Primary lymphedema is diagnosed when someone is born with a lymphatic system malfunction, often reasonably early in youth. Secondary lymphedema is diagnosed after a traumatic event that causes lymphatic system damage, such as cancer-related surgery (which may require removal of lymph nodes with tumors), radiation therapy, parasitic infections, or traumatic injuries. Symptoms include swelling in an extremity that worsens over time; the swollen limb may feel heavy; skin that feels tight or looks thicker or leathery; and clothing or jewelry that fits the affected area too tightly. Lymphedema (as well as Lipedema, which also presents as swelling) tends to be an underdiagnosed condition or one mistreated with fluid pills, which do not touch or impact the lymphatic system. The good news is that lymphedema can be treated at any stage. The better news is that the earlier lymphedema is diagnosed, the easier it’s treated. A physician, oncologist, radiation oncologist, or vascular specialist usually refers lymphedema patients to a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) due to swelling or decreased range of motion. According to Kaitlin Barry, Master of Occupational Therapy, CLT, cORT, and Magothy Therapy and Wellness owner, “The best way to manage and treat lymphedema is with complete decongestive therapy, the non-invasive gold standard of care.” Complete decongestive therapy
combines four treatment approaches: compression bandaging, manual lymphatic drainage (massage), exercise, and skincare. This complete level of care can only be provided by a CLT as they have over 350+ hours of training on the lymphatic level and also help to determine the correct compression garments for the stage of lymphedema. Kaitlin also told us, “Purchasing properly regulated compression garments, rather than any old compression garment you find online, is important for your care. You want to get the right compression for your stage because if it’s wrong, the garment could act as a tourniquet to your lymphatic system, potentially increasing the swelling. Finding the right form and style of compression garments can be life-changing for some people.” Lymphatic massage is also an increasingly popular approach to wellness. It is meant to decrease overall body bloat and serve as a detox. You do not have to have lymphedema to get a lymphatic massage. Some OB-GYNs will recommend patients in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy to a CLT for lymphatic massage, but clearance is required.
Other lymphedema resources: National Lymphedema Network Magothy Therapy Resource Page Lymphology Association of North America
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