Lymphedema at a Glance
Chronic swelling condition
Common in arms/legs
May start with heaviness/tightness
Manageable with early care
Definition and causes
Your lymphatic system is the body’s “plumbing system”, responsible for removing waste material from the body. It is part of the immune system which helps fight disease and infections. The lymphatic system is found throughout all body areas with blood supply and pumps toward the cardiovascular system.
Lymphedema is a condition where an abnormal collection of protein-rich lymph fluid affects one or many parts of the body and causes swelling. In most cases, the extremities are affected - however, the face, neck, abdomen or genitals could also be affected. This swelling occurs due to damaged or deformed lymphatic vessels or nodes.
Primary types:
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Primary lymphedema: related to how the lymphatic system formed.
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Secondary lymphedema: develops after damage or blockage (commonly after cancer treatment such as lymph node removal/radiation, surgery/trauma, infection/inflammation, scar tissue, or reduced mobility).
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Clothing or jewelry tighter on the affected limb
Firmer/tight-feeling skin
Uncomfortable fullness and aching
Limited mobility in the area (foot, ankle, knee, hand, etc.)
Frequent skin irritations and infections
Seek urgent medical evaluation if swelling appears suddenly, becomes painful, or is accompanied by redness/warmth, fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Treatment options for lymphedema
Treatment is individualized based on the location, stage, skin condition, and your day-to-day needs. A common clinical approach is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which may include the following:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Gentle, specialized hands-on techniques that help encourage lymph flow and reduce fluid buildup.
Compression Therapy
Bandaging and/or compression garments that help control swelling and maintain treatment results.
Therapeutic Exercise & Movement
Guided movement to support circulation, improve strength, and maintain everyday function.
Skin Care
Education
Practical skin care strategies that protect tissue health and help reduce the risk of infection.
Self-Management Training
Personalized routines and tools you can use at home to manage symptoms and support long-term results.