Treating lymphedema with physical therapy

One condition that causes the swelling of a limb in many Americans across the nation is lymphedema. This is a condition that can occur for a number of reasons. It primarily affects seniors and it has no cure. 

The swelling caused by lymphedema can be painful and limit your range of motion. Even though it’s incurable, it’s important to seek treatment for lymphedema to manage your quality of life. One professional you can trust with lymphedema treatment is a physical therapist.

How can physical therapy help people with lymphedema?

In extreme cases of lymphedema, you may need surgery for treatment. Fortunately, most people with lymphedema can get by with physical therapy.

Physical therapy treatments for lymphedema at Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy vary, as each patient is unique and experiences lymphedema differently. Depending on the severity of your condition and other variables, such as weight, age and medical history, your lymphedema treatment may include:

• Stretching and exercising — Stretches and exercises can help release trapped lymphatic fluid in the affected limb. Moving this lymph fluid along can help reduce swelling and improve your range of motion.
• Manual massage — Hands-on therapy and massage can help promote the movement of lymphatic fluid. This helps prevent the fluid from getting trapped in the limb and cause swelling.
• Compression techniques — Compression wraps and socks may be necessary to help reduce the buildup of lymphatic fluid in the limb. Physical therapists can help fit you with the correct garment. This is important because a garment that fits too tightly may cut off circulation and cause other problems. 

In addition to these treatments, your physical therapist may use aquatic therapy, cold and hot therapy and other methods to help reduce the buildup of lymphatic fluid in your system.

Contact Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy for lymphedema treatment

If you’re suffering from pain and loss of mobility related to lymphedema, you should talk to a physical therapist at Peak Performance Sports and Physical Therapy. We have many tools and techniques at our disposal to help you find relief and recover some range of motion. Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options or schedule a consultation with one of our physical therapists.