Lymphedema is a condition in which excess lymph fluid is unable to drain properly. The result is a variety of symptoms that can affect one’s quality of life. If you have lymphedema, Salmon Creek physical therapy may be effective. PT is an effective method to manage the condition, although there is not a cure. Incorporating physical therapy into your treatment helps to reduce symptoms and improve your life.
PT’s Role in Lymphedema Treatment
During your first appointment, your physical therapist will design a customized treatment program to best help manage your lymphedema. Your therapist plays a variety of roles during treatment.
Helps You Understand Your Condition
Some people with lymphedema do not fully understand what causes it and what the associated symptoms may be. Lymphedema occurs in those whose lymph nodes are damaged, blocked, or removed.
Lymphedema is more common in cancer patients, as the tumor or treatment may affect the associated lymph nodes. When lymph nodes are affected, they are not able to function correctly, and excess fluid builds up in certain areas. Common places where lymphedema occurs are the arms and legs, although it can also occur in the neck, abdomen, groin region, and chest wall.
Symptoms of lymphedema may include:
- Swelling of the infected area
- Limited range of motion
- Thickening skin
- Feeling of tightness or heaviness in the affected limb
Lymphedema can range from mild to severe. Complications include increased skin infections, skin leakage, and skin changes. Untreated infections can also lead to sepsis.
Gives Advice About Home Management
Because there is no treatment that fully gets rid of lymphedema, you will be given advice as to how you can manage it on your own at home. Your PT may advise you regarding skin protection, wound care, diet, stress reduction, and home exercises. He or she may also recommend online or in-person support groups, so that you can be around others going through the same thing as you.
Uses Various Methods to Manage the Symptoms
When you seek physical therapy in Estacada, your physical therapist will use a variety of methods to reduce the swelling, which also helps reduce the other symptoms. The techniques used specifically on you vary based on your situation.
How PT Helps Manage Lymphedema
When you search for physical therapy near me, make sure to ask if the clinic has physical therapists that have experience working with lymphedema clients. If so, make sure your appointment is with one of those therapists.
During your sessions, your physical therapist works with the goal of draining the excess lymph to reduce swelling and improve movement. One way he or she does this is with manual drainage, which consists of a gentle massaging of the affected area. Your PT may also use compression bandages or sequential pneumatic compression. You may also be measured for compression garments to wear.
There is a good chance your therapist will recommend exercises for you to do during the sessions and at home. Exercise also helps to move the lymph, and your program will vary based on your current exercise level.
