What is Lymphedema & How to Manage It By Physical Therapy

 

The human body's lymphatic system is an essential component of the immune system. This system moves lymph fluid throughout the body through small channels called lymph vessels. Lymphedema is caused when the lymphatic system is unable to function properly. Let's discuss it briefly.

What Is Lymphedema?

Inflammation of the lymphatic system may cause lymphedema, a condition where fluid accumulates in the body's soft tissues affecting lymphatic drainage. A person with lymphedema will experience swelling in the affected body area. This swelling usually happens as a result of damage to the lymph vessels. Sometimes, the skin around the affected areas may appear red and scaly.

Signs & Symptoms:

The following are some of the symptoms of lymphedema:

 

●     Swelling of the affected area of the body.

●     Redness and inflammation

●     Pain

●     Heat

●     Discomfort

●     Fatigue

●     Weakness

●     Itching.

 

What Is the Pathology of Lymphedema

Lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system comprises tubes that carry lymph, which is part of the immune system. These tubes are found throughout the body. The lymphatic system filters out the excess fluids from our bodies. When the lymphatic system is damaged, or there is an obstruction of the lymphatic system, this can lead to lymphedema.

 

Lymphedema is caused by blockage of the lymphatic system. It is not contagious and can be treated with a few simple steps. Lymphedema is usually a secondary condition to cancer treatment or other injuries that destroy the lymphatic system, such as a deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or infection.

 

The causes of lymphedema are very complicated and vary widely. There are many causes, including congenital defects in the lymphatic system, lymphatic system injuries during birth, cancer treatments, and genetic disorders. The most common cause of lymphedema is breast cancer.

 

There are many causes of lymphedema. Some of these are:

 

●     Injury or surgery to the arm or leg

●     Infection

●     Chronic infection

●     Radiation treatment to the area of the body affected.

●     Congenital conditions like lymphangioma

Stages Of Lymphedema

Stage 1:There is no sign and symptoms at this stage.

 

Stage 2: Swelling causes tissue damage. The skin becomes thin and easily torn. This can lead to the formation of scars and ulcers.

 

Stage 3: Swelling occurs at an accelerated rate and causes significant tissue damage. The tissue becomes fibrous, and the skin may begin to adhere to the underlying tissue.

 

Stage 4: There is significant tissue damage at this stage, and the skin does not adhere well to the underlying tissue. A thick, fibrous scar may form. There is no cure for lymphedema, but treatments are available to help manage the condition.

Physical Therapy Treatment of Lymphedema

The most common treatment for lymphedema is physical therapy. Therapists use exercises to help increase circulation in the lymph vessels and decrease swelling. Lymphedema exercises can be done at home or in a rehabilitation center.

 

People with lymphedema may have difficulty exercising and working out because of their condition. However, there are exercises that people with lymphedema can do without causing pain.

 

Most people with lymphedema have two types of physical therapy treatment:

1. Conventional Physical Therapy (CPT)

In CPT, the physical therapist asks you to wear compression garments and perform leg raises; leg stretches, crunches, and other simple abdominal strengthening exercises.

2. Water Exercise Physical Therapy (WEPT)

WEPT involves performing exercises while standing or sitting in a pool of water. The advantages of WEPT include that patients don't have to wear a garment, and they can exercise while floating in a warm, shallow pool.