What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is swelling caused by the build-up of protein rich fluid when lymph nodes in the affected area are removed or damaged, as often occurs following treatment for breast cancer. Lymphedema is most commonly seen in the trunk, breast and /or upper extremity on the affected side and can occur immediately following treatment or may develop even years after treatment has been completed.
Are you at risk for developing Lymphedema?
Breast cancer treatment places individuals at lifelong risk for development of lymphedema. Risk factors for developing lymphedema include the following:
- lymph node dissection, radiation therapy, and
- being overweight with a Body-Mass-Index (BMI) of greater than 25.
- Complications following treatment including delayed wound healing, persistent swelling and infection may also contribute to the development of lymphedema.
Complete Decongestive Therapy
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), presently considered the “gold standard” of physical therapy treatment for the management of lymphedema, consists of two phases:
- Phase 1 – the initial reductive phase. Aims to reduce the size of the affected area and improve the skin.
- Phase 2- the maintenance phase. Ongoing, individualized self-management to maintain the benefits and gains achieved in phase 1. Patients require periodic monitoring and may require active Phase 1 treatment if symptoms have progressed.
Effects of Complete Decongestive Therapy
- Decrease swelling
- Increase lymph drainage from the congested area
- Reduce skin fibrosis and improve skin condition
- Enhance patient’s functional status
- Relieve discomfort and improve the quality of life
- Reduce the risk of cellulitis and infection
Components of Complete Decongestive Therapy
- Manual lymph drainage
- compression bandaging and use of compression garments,
- therapeutic exercise
- Patient education and instruction in self-management, prevention and skin care.