The lymphatic system is an important part of maintaining healthy immunity. Unfortunately, certain things can interfere with the proper function of this system. This causes lymph to accumulate in certain areas of the body, and this can result in limited range of motion and pain.
If you suffer from lymphedema, you may want to search for physical therapy near me. Physical therapists who are trained to manage lymphedema can help reduce the swelling and recommend lifestyle changes to improve your quality of life.
Understanding Lymphatic Health
The organs, tissues, and vessels associated with the lymphatic system work in conjunction to remove excess lymph and maintain healthy fluid levels. This system also ensures that your body is absorbing vital vitamins and fat, so they can enter the bloodstream. The lymphatic system also plays a part in fighting off bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause illness.
If there is blockage in the lymph system, or if lymph nodes have been removed, the system is unable to work as it should, and this can lead to lymphedema. This is a common occurrence for cancer patients, as a tumor may be pressing against a node, or lymph nodes were removed as part of treatment. Radiation treatment may also result in inflammation or scarring of the lymph vessels or nodes.
Lymphedema can range from mild to severe, and common signs and symptoms include:
- Swelling, particularly in the extremities
- Reduced movement
- Feeling of tight or heavy skin
- Thickening of the skin
Although lymphedema most commonly occurs in the arm or leg, it can also occur in the neck, genital region, abdomen, and chest wall. If lymphedema is affecting your life, Salmon Creek physical therapy may be able to help.
Support for Lymphedema Management
There are numerous ways that physical therapy in Estacada can manage lymphedema.
Swelling Management
Although there is no cure for lymphedema, one of the focuses of management is to reduce swelling. At a physical therapy appointment, there are a variety of ways your therapist may do this.
One is manual lymph drainage, in which the physical therapist uses a gentle and light massage to move the lymph back to the trunk of the body. Another method is pneumatic compression, in which a sleeve is connected to the affected limb. A pump intermittently inflates and deflates the sleeve to move the excess fluid.
Your therapist may also wrap the limb with low-stretch bandages to support the flow of lymph.
Exercises
Exercise is another way to move fluid. Your physical therapist will develop an exercise program based on your specific situation.
Support and At-Home Management
Your physical therapist may also recommend home remedies. He or she may measure you for compression garments to wear at home. You will also learn how to correctly care for the affected area.
People with lymphedema are more prone to skin infections. You will learn how to treat a wound and prevent infection. You may also receive a list of support groups so you can meet with others who are experiencing what you are.
