Lymphedema Management

Lymphedema is the swelling of part of the body due to damage or dysfunction of the lymph system. Lymphedema of the arm or chest wall is a common complication after breast cancer and lymph node removal, and often causes mobility limitations and discomfort. Lymphedema of the leg and lower part of the trunk can occur following abdominal or gynecological cancers, or longstanding swelling from venous insufficiency, obesity or other causes. People affected by lymphedema have an increased risk of developing infections in the affected body part. Ideally, the development of lymphedema is detected and treated early. This can prevent progression of lymphedema to advanced stages.

Primary lymphedema is a swelling that is caused by a malformation of the lymphatic system during its development in the mother’s womb. However, symptoms are often not present until later in life. It can affect any part of the body, even head and neck, pelvis, and abdomen.

The treatment of lymphedema is based on a thorough assessment and will likely contain some or all of the elements of combined decongestive therapy (compression, exercise, skin care, and lymphatic drainage).

Depending on the goal of the treatment (prevention, maintenance, or volume reduction), the severity of the condition, and the client’s unique circumstances, Sonja and the client will discuss and select the best suitable treatment protocol.

The most desirable outcome is to enable the client to manage their lymphedema mostly independently, like any other chronic condition, in the long-term.