TR E ATMENT F OR LY M PHEDEMA:
Additional signs and symptoms of lymphedema include hardening of the skin (fibrosis) and an increased risk and frequency of infections (given the lymph system’s intricate role in the body’s immunity). Causes of Lymphedema Lymphedema is generally classified as either primary (occurring as its own entity) or secondary (occurring because of another underlying medical condition). Primary lymphedema is often due to: • Milroy’s disease, which leads to abnormally formed lymph nodes • Late-onset lymphedema, developing in people 35 years and up • Meige’s congenital disease, also known as lymphedema praecox, which develops during or before puberty Secondary lymphedema is often due to: • Cancer of the lymph nodes • Cancer treatment, including radiation and surgical removal of lymph nodes for the purposes of biopsy (this is one of the most common causes of lymphedema) • Infection of the lymph nodes • Surgery or trauma that damages the lymph nodes and vessels • Obesity • Advancing age • Certain autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis Lymphedema is typically diagnosed using a combination of imaging, lab tests, patient history, and physical examination techniques. How Physical Therapy Helps Presently, there is no known cure for lymphedema. However, individualized physical therapy can help patients living with lymphedema manage their condition more effectively. The primary goal of lymphedema treatment is to promote lymphatic drainage, thereby reducing swelling and improving symptoms and function. Treatment may include: • Skin care • Therapeutic exercises • Pneumatic compression (a specialized sleeve connected to a pump that intermittently compresses the affected limb) • Limb wrapping techniques with short stretch bandages—not ACE wrap • Manual lymphatic drainage It is extremely important that a person with lymphedema receives individualized instructions on proper limb wrapping and other interventions in order to avoid complications and to make sure they have no contraindications, such as skin infections, acute inflammation, or thrombosis. Physical therapists also educate their patients living with lymphedema about proper self-care techniques that can help control symptoms and improve function. Recommendations frequently include:
• Stress management • Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine (with physician supervision) • Use of compression stockings and other garments • Meticulous skin and nail care (keep nails trimmed, check skin for cracks and cuts, keep skin and nails clean) Research also indicates that physical therapy plays a major role in prevention of lymphedema, particularly when it relates to cancer. For instance, a 2008 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Cancer found that early screening with a physical therapist can help prevent breast- cancer-related lymphedema from progressing into more severe stages. Struggling with Swollen Limbs Due to Lymphedema? Our Physical Therapist Staff Can Help You Manage Your Condition If you or a loved one are living with lymphedema, we encourage you to contact Kewanee Physical Therapy at (309) 852-2200 to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist. Our non-invasive and individualized services can help you maximize your function and regain your active lifestyle. Call today! J O I N U S F O R O U R FREE LYMPHEDEMA CONSULTATION DAY!
SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2020 7 AM–12 PM
Stop suffering from the symptoms of lymphedema! Join us for a FREE consultation and get back to living your life to the fullest! To reserve your spot, call us today at (309) 852-2200!
www. kptrs.com
KEWANEE (309) 852-2200
GALVA (309) 932-8100
STARK COUNTY (309) 695-4010
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