Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of protein fluid in the interstitial spaces caused by a malfunctioning or deficiency of the lymph system and can occur in any area of the body or limb.
There are two types of lymphedema:
Primary lymphedema may affect both the lymph nodes and the lymph
vessels. Its cause can be idiopathic (unknown) or inherited and can be
present at birth or be brought on by a trauma.
Secondary lymphedema is acquired and is caused by either infection
or surgery or radiation therapy. Chronic venous insufficiency can also
lead to lymphedema.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms include swelling, pitting of skin, heavy or achy wooden feeling
of limb, limitation of movement and in some cases recurrent skin infections.
TREATMENT
There are no safe surgical or drug treatments currently available to treat most types of lymphedema lymphedema.
Because of its complex and individualized nature, treatment should only
be performed by a certified lymphedema therapist. Mary Rosenberg, P.T.,
CLT-LANA is a member of the National Lymphedema Network and the American
Physical Therapy Association oncology section and is a certified lymphedema
therapist.
Specific treatments include:
- Manual lymph drainage massage.
- Wrapping with special bandages and foam to maintain and further decrease edema.
- Exercise while in bandages to facilitate lymph flow.
- Skin care to protect against infection.
- Self care program for patient and family.
- Fitting for compression sleeves/hose.