Lymphedema Management
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is the buildup of fluid (called lymph) in the tissues just below the skin. This build-up of lymphatic fluid can result in visible swelling or may be experienced as feelings of tightness, heaviness, or discomfort in the swollen area. Unlike other types of swelling related to the body’s natural healing processes, lymphedema occurs due to an impaired lymphatic system.
How is Lymphedema Related to Cancer?
Cancer and cancer treatments can result in lymphedema.
- Tumors and enlarged lymph nodes can cause lymphedema by putting pressure on the lymphatic tissues and blocking the flow of lymph fluid.
- Surgeries to treat cancers that involve the removal of lymph nodes can cause lymphedema. The more lymph nodes removed during surgery, the higher the risk of developing lymphedema.
- Radiation therapy can cause damage to local lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels and can result in lymphedema.
How is lymphedema diagnosed?
A diagnosis of lymphedema is often based on a persons’ reported symptoms, clinical signs of swelling, medical history, and any diagnostic testing completed to rule out other causes of swelling. Our specially trained physical therapists will use circumferential measures and limb volume calculations to assess swelling of the area.
Early Detection of Lymphedema in Breast Cancer Patients
At Southcoast, your surgical team and Oncology Rehabilitation Professionals utilize Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS) to detect swelling and tissue changes before they are visible to the person or clinician. BIS uses a small electrical wave to understand if fluid congestion is occurring in the tissue. This test is quick and painless.
Is there treatment for lymphedema?
Yes. Southcoast Oncology Rehabilitation Department offers lymphedema treatment provided by one of our Physical Therapists with specialized training as Certified Lymphedema Therapists.
Your therapist will work with you to generate an individualized plan to reduce any symptoms and appearance of swelling and will teach you how to maintain improvement in swelling symptoms.
Typical treatment sessions may include:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage: A specialized manual technique that works to mobilize lymph fluid out of the swollen body part/region
- Compression therapy: The use of short stretch compression bandages or the use of compression garments to reduce swelling. Your team may recommend ongoing, daily use of compression garments for optimal swelling management.
- Exercise: Perform and prescribe safe and effective exercises to improve circulation of lymph fluid
- Patient Education: Lymphedema risk reduction practices and lymphedema management strategies for short- and long-term lymphedema management.
- Developing individualized treatment plans: Restore your range of motion and strength following surgery and/or radiation treatments
- Provide comprehensive physical rehabilitation necessary to return to your preferred physical activities.
With early detection and treatment, lymphedema can be reversed. Report any symptoms to your healthcare provider and discuss a referral to our lymphedema program and breast cancer rehab program.
Patient Education & Resources
Lymphedema Fact Sheet
Head and Neck Cancer Fact Sheet
Head and Neck Lymphedema
Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema
Locations
Fall River
235 Hanover St, Fall River, MA
