The lymphatic system consists of three parts – protein-rich lymph fluid, lymph vessels and lymph nodes containing infection-fighting cells, or lymphocytes. The system begins by disseminating lymph fluid throughout the body. This fluid flows through the lymph vessels, collecting waste products, bacteria and viri and conducting them to the lymph nodes where they are filtered and drained out by lymphocytes.

Lymphadema occurs when there is a blockage in the lymphatic system, preventing natural drainage of lymph fluid. The fluid accumulates, resulting in an abnormal swelling of tissues in the arms or legs. There are two types of lymphadema: primary lymphadema, which is an inherited disorder; and secondary lymphadema, which is an acquired disorder caused by damage or trauma to the lympathic system.

There is no cure for lymphadema. However, there are treatments to minimize swelling and reduce discomfort. These treatments are conducted under a single therapy called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT):

1. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a specialized massage technique performed by qualified lymphadema therapists. The massages stimulate the flow of lymph fluids from damaged lymph nodes and redirect them into healthier ones so that fluids can drain normally. MLD treatment lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of lymphadema in the affected limb. Four to 14 treatments over two to four weeks reduce swelling in the limbs.

You may urinate often after MLD, because excess lymph fluids are processed by your kidneys and pass out of your body as urine. Hence, drinking plenty of water before and after the treatment is important to prevent dehydration. MLD should be avoided if you received cancer radiation therapy in the affected areas. Consult a physician before proceeding with MLD if you have skin infections, congestive heart failure, blood clots, cellulitis or active cancer.

2. Compression Therapy

Compression therapy is conducted between MLD treatments to maintain and enhance the progress already made. Various compression methods place pressure on the tissues in the affected limb, thus aiding in the natural drainage of excess lymph fluids. Compression also minimizes and prevents additional swelling. Lymphadema can be compressed with bandages, compression aids and garments.

Bandages are most effective, since they are adjustable to the different sizes of the affected limb pre- and post-treatment. Furthermore, bandages are flexible, as they can be worn when one is active or resting. Compression garments, such as knit two-way stretch sleeves or stockings, are worn only while the patient is awake. These garments assist in controlling swelling and moving lymph fluids from the affected area. Compression aids are custom-made of fabric covering a layer of foam. These aids include pads, sleeves and stockings and are worn in the evening or during sleep.

3. Self-Management Techniques

Lymphadema treatments are supplemented with self-care techniques such as regular decongestive exercises, a consistent skin care regimen and self-massage between MLD treatments. Decongestive exercises move lymph fluids out of the affected limb. Consult your physician or qualified lymphadema therapist for advice on an exercise plan. A skin care regimen is crucial to prevent skin infections such as cellulitis and fungal attacks. Keep your skin clean and moisturize it with low Ph lotions like udder cream and Eucerin.

An essential technique to manage lymphadema is self-massage. Self-massage methods are similar to MLD massages and stimulate lymph vessels to improve flow and drainage of excess lymph fluids. Your qualified lymphadema therapist can provide you with instructions on a daily self-massage program. Self-massage as often as advised by your therapist.

CDT treatments for lymphadema are non-invasive, reliable and effective. Even so, in cases of severe lymphadema, your therapist may recommend surgery to remove excess tissues in your limbs.