Treating Lymphedema with Compression Arm Sleeves and Calf Sleeves – The Uvoider Blog

Lymphedema is a medical condition that is caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system. This blockage prevents the flow of lymph fluid, a clear fluid that is carried toward the heart. Unable to properly flow, the lymph fluid builds up and causes swelling. There is no cure for lymphedema, but the swelling and discomfort can be treated using compression and physical therapy.

An Overview of Lymphedema

Lymphedema refers to a certain kind of swelling that can occur in your limbs. It can occur in one or both of your arms and/or one or both of your legs. There is no cure for lymphedema but the swelling and discomfort can be treated and managed.

Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema

When your arm or leg is affected by lymphedema, certain signs and symptoms of the condition may start to appear, including:

Noticeable swelling
A noticeable feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb or limbs
Aches and pains
Recurring skin infections
Fibrosis (hardening and thickening of the skin)

Cases of lymphedema can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, minor swelling, tingling, shooting pains, reduced flexibility of joints and redness of skin may occur. In severe cases of lymphedema, it can be difficult to use the affected limbs and swelling can extend to your fingers and toes.

Causes of Lymphedema

Causes of lymphedema include:

Genetic disorder
Damage or removal of lymph nodes during surgery
Having multiple surgeries to the chest
Radiation and chemotherapy
Infection of the lymph nodes

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase your risk of developing lymphedema:

Older age
Rheumatoid arthritis
Excess weight or obesity
Having injuries and infections
Flying on airplanes, especially long flights

Treating Lymphedema

Lymphedema cannot be cured, but it can be treated to reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort and to prevent lymphedema from getting worse. Options to treat lymphedema include:

Exercise – Gentle muscle movement and flexibility and stretching exercises wearing compression sleeves to help lymph fluid circulation
Wrapping – Use a graduated wrap to the affected limb, tightest at the extremities and looser toward your body, to encourage lymph fluid to flow toward the heart
Massage – Special therapy massage called manual lymph drainage to facilitate the flow of lymph fluid
Pneumatic compression – A special sleeve connected to a pump that creates pressure on the limb to encourage lymph fluid to flow
Compression sleeves – Compression sleeves that can be worn at any time and especially during exercise that encourage the flow of lymph fluid
Surgery – Removal of excess tissue in your arms or legs to reduce swelling

What You Should Do

As with any medical condition, you should regularly see your doctor and follow your doctor’s orders. Take your lymphedema condition seriously; don’t just cope with it or ignore it. Make the effort and take the time to treat your lymphedema. Keep swollen limbs elevated, regularly perform your lymphedema exercises, and wear compression sleeves.