Lymphedema
Lymphedema happens when fluid, "lymph," builds up in the tissues of your body instead of flowing normally. Missing or damaged lymph nodes can cause lymphedema, and it's important for cancer patients to know you can get lymphedema at any time if you had your lymph nodes removed as part of your cancer treatment.
Signs of lymphedema include:
swelling
firmness
aches
pain in the affected limb
Some important things to note:
If you had lymph nodes removed, you can develop lymphedema at any point in time, even years after your initial treatment.
Go for a baseline visit with a physical therapist trained in lymphedema to have measurements taken. If possible, schedule this before surgery so your PT can get an accurate baseline measurement.
Protect the impacted limb: liberally apply sunscreen, avoid bugs and bug bites, injuries, burns, scrapes, and bruises.
When seeing a trained physical therapist that has managed cancer patients with lymphedema, it's important to note that different physical therapists might have different approaches for treatment. Talk with your provider about your lymphedema care plan.
Helpful Resources
Lymphedema Workshops
This video from Going Beyond the Pink shows a Lymphedema Workshop with helpful information and resources.
Show and Tell: Pumping for Lymphedema
Click this link to see how to pump for lymphedema!
Myofascial Release Workshop
Curious about Myofascial Release?
Check out this video from Going Beyond the Pink.
Lymphatic Massage
Click this link for a Lymphatic Massage video from Going Beyond the Pink.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
Do you know how to do self-lymph drainage and massage?
Do you use compression sleeves? Why or why not?
Do you know how to spot the signs of lymphedema?
Do you know how to protect your affected limb when you are at risk for or have lymphedema?