Lymphedema is the swelling in arms and legs developed due to blockage of lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is a part of our immune and circulatory system. It helps as a drainage channel to drain all the excessive body fluid. There are certain lymph nodes in our body in which the fluid is drained.
Lymphedema can happen when there is either damage to lymph nodes due to cancer treatments or surgical removal of the lymph nodes.
WHAT TO DO?
If you have a patient suffering from cancer at your home with excessive swelling in the arms or legs, then take a deep breath and consult a good physiotherapist who will tell you about multiple ways of reducing the swelling.
It includes:
EXERCISE
1. Range of motion exercises: Gentle exercises to maintain the range of the joint like shoulder and hip must be done depending upon the area affected.
2. To improve pumping of fluid: Exercises like pressing a smiley ball or gentle ankle toe movements can be done with the body part in elevated position to help reduce the swelling by creating a pumping action.
3. Stretches: Gentle stretches for the joints is important to prevent them from stiffening and maintain their range and muscle flexibility.
DRAINAGE
Lymphatic drainage is a very well known method to drain the fluid. It involves activating the lymphatics and lymph nodes.
Divide the affected part in multiple segments so as to cover whole of it. Then massage one segment at a time gently moving your fingers in a circular manner 50-100 times and then drain that segment in the lymph nodes.
BANDAGING
Bandaging is very helpful in reducing swelling. There are special kits available in the market that are used by the professional to create pressure and reduce swelling. It must be done properly as excessive pressure can impede the blood flow and less pressure will be of no use.
Need more advice or treatment? Many health care experts at Antarnaad are always here to help you out. Antarnaad is a growing network of experienced physiotherapists, dietitians, nutritionists, fitness trainers and Yoga experts providing treatment for all the conditions. For more information visit our website www.antarnaad.net or call our Consultant: Mb: 9899700187
