I have lymphedema in arm, breast, side, shoulder following lumpectomy, ALND, 33 RT. Want to start new exercise pgm wearing compression. How do I size and order OTC garments for arm AND breast?  Thanks, Laura

Lower legs both affected from birth. I'm now 67. Experiencing extreme heat and heaviness like I've not had before. Or maybe I di but could tolerate better? Anything to be concerned about? Thank you.

I am a lifelong runner and was diagnosed with breast cancer about a year and a half ago and developed arm and breast lymphedema. I'm looking for a brand of well supporting running bra in a DD cup that helps prevent fluid buildup when I run. Thank you so much!

Hello. I was involved in accident with a tractor trailer. It damaged one of legs and it still affects me today. I was told the best way to heal is to control my edema. How does one accomplish this? I can not seem to understand the triggers or causes.Thanks.

had lymphedema for 10yr unknown how I got it started in my right leg after pregnancy I have it in both I have done vein ablation and didn’t seem to help I’ve done everything nothing seems to help and I’m in extreme constant pain everyday any advice

Hi does compression stockings if worn regularly stop the leg from growing any further??

I am an OT / do lymphadema wrapping at a hospital. I got a recent order for lymphadema wrapping a recent BKA who had an infection, had 2 I & D's and a wound vac. I have never heard of wrapping with a wound vac. Please give your opinion. Thankyou

I'm a month post-op for a full right arm nodal clearance/breast cancer surgery. I'm a violinist and worried as my arm feels heavy and numb in areas even though I'm massaging daily. Do you have advice on what I can do to preserve my ability to keep playing please?

I am a breast cancer survivor experiencing lymphedema in my left arm. I received a Jobst compression sleeve. I have large arms and the sleeve binds my upper arm. After asking for a larger sleeve, I was told there was none. How can I find a sleeve that fits? Stephanie

I had mastectomy.and snb in August. I am fit and slim and would like to start a martial arts class but am concerned about risk of lymphedema. Is this the sort of activity I should always avoid now as it could involve knocks to my arm.

Lymphedema from a mastectomy 10 years ago. I maintain by using MLD, a pneumatic pump, and wrap with bandages at night. Seeing surgeon soon to discuss surgery for a large tear on my rotator cuff and possibly a tear on bicep tendon. How do I maintain lymphedema after surgery?

Please recommendations for full body LE and compression. I suffer the most from my head and neck, but have mild swelling everywhere else. Lymph nodes always painful. MLD doesn’t help at all with face swelling.

Are you aware if there's any legitimacy to dry brushing (or hand stroking) the skin to move lymphatic flow? I have not found research to support dry brushing? Traditional MLD is a two-way stretch; brushing (or stroking) doesn't provide that.

Research from Australia notes a change in MLD protocol for breast cancer lymphedema. That change is utilizing the affected axillary nodes. While results indicate the effectiveness reduced as lymphedema staging worsened, using firm pressure overcame this. This is a deviation from training. Thoughts? (https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12885-019-6192-1)

I am due to have shoulder arthroscopy for arthritis, and repair of a high level rotator cuff tear. This arm has lymphedema following axillary dissection in 2012. Would I be able to use my pump following the procedure, how soon, & at what frequency? Thank you!

Hi, I'm a physical therapist and wondering what resource is best referenced to teach this concept to students? I have seen the articles posted on this website and various journal articles on the EGL. Just wanted to see what others are doing. Thank you! -Eddie

Is rebounding an exercise that could help lymphedema?

MLD is backed by research proving enhancement of lymph flow & ability to develop new pathways. Do alternative therapies like dry brushing work the same way? I cannot find any research supporting the efficacy. The same with vibration plates.

Every article says get a therapist or PT trained in lymphedema. There is not one where I live or can get to. I had 20+ lymph nodes removed, swelling getting worse with compression sleeve and gauntlet. What can I do? Please help, I’m not ready to give up.

After cancerous tumor in my cervix, plus lymph nodes, removed 4 yrs. ago, leg edema began 6 mths. ago. If a recumbent bike's useful, how much pedaling do you advise? I avoid salt, been vegetarian 25 years but eat fish. Other advice? Many, many thanks!

For as long as I can remember I have had cankles. I have never been overweight. If I drink alcohol, stand too long, or get hot, my ankles swell. I have no underlying health problems. I'm 47 yo and weigh 145. What can I do?!

I have lymphedema in my legs really bad. I have it mostly in my legs , so bad so that I can hardly walk most days. Is there anything that I can be doing to help ,so that I might be able to walk better.

Hi Cynthia, I had BC 30 years ago and the surgery involved removing 32 nodes. After training, I self-manage lymphedema. I have thin arms and can no longer find sleeves that aren't too loose above the elbow. I'm tired of using skin glue for them. Any advise on retailers? Thanks!

I am 6 yrs post 10 L and 4 R axillary lymph node removal. I experience occasional swelling and fullness in my left arm when weightlifting or exercising. Should I be wearing a compression garment when exercising to prevent these occurrences, when symptomatic, or not at all?

I have lymphedema in my entire left leg. I am scheduled to have a total knee replacement in that leg. Is there anything I should do to try to manage my lymphedema before, during and after, during my recovery? Thank you so much. Ruth Rickerson

When sleeves, bandages and pumps no longer working to reduce lymph fluid and actually cause pain what other options should we look at or consider.

Hello Does having the above conditions preclude a dynamic brace being prescribed to help straighten the knee and stretch muscles and hamstrings etc to achieve some mobility and quality of life. Physiotherapy sessions are being attended. Thigh high hosiery being worn 24/7-no swelling fluctuations. Many thanks KR Lesley

I had an earlier question about wearing a compression garment after surgery. I have Lymphadema. I appreciate your answer but would like to know the why to explain to my physician. Thank you.

I would like to know, do you use Manual lymphatic therapy to help lipedema patients? If you use it, how often?

I have Lymphadema after BC and most lymph nodes were removed. Should I wear a compression sleeve after skin cancer surgery on affected Lymphadema arm?

Hi Cynthia! I was recently diagnosed with secondary LE in my left thigh/hip and have been given a thigh high compression stocking. but as it doesn’t cover my butt I was wondering if you know of any compression Capri shorts? My LE doesn’t affect my lower leg. Would this work?:)

Any Recommendations for a self-measure tape? Finding perception hard to trust as to swelling going up or down. Left hand too clumsy to use regular tapes. Saw a few on amazon,but they seemed more geared towards body builders. Not seeing therapist as frequently.

Hi! Pre-COVID, I was writing a grant to start a dragon boat group. Post-COVID, I don't see people sitting that close. Can you think of other group activities that would work for breast cancer survivors? Some that I've been brainstorming have been fly-fishing, archery (adapted and regular), and bowling. Thanks!

Which cases it's better to use graduated-long-stretch elastic bandages (like https://www.thuasne.com/en/biflexr-16-light-graduated) rather than short-stretch (like https://www.rehabmedic.com/bsn-comprilan.html)? I have a primary lymphedema, both legs. Is it a good idea to have mld in a single leg, alternating each leg during 20 sessions (10 each) but bandaging both legs all 20 days?

I am having surgery to remove melanoma from my calf. I have primary lymphedema in that leg and concerned with recovery. Looking for suggestions or information about recovering and keeping my leg safe from infection while healing. Also concerned with swelling opening the wound. Thank you!

I am very close to having stage II Lymphedema in my leg, caused by surgery. I use full length compression socks daily and use a Medi pump daily. My leg goes down at night. Do I need to use a sock at night while sleeping.

Is there anything I can do to repel bugs while outside--without damaging my arm/hand compression garments? Concerned about numerous mosquito bites on infected arm, made through garment. Will keep clean and watch for infection, of course. Want to spend time outside if I can. Thank you.

Due to covid-19 I have moved from a full time, on my feet running around professor to a distance education teacher sitting all day. I would like to set up a good home office. Any Guidance? Chairs? How elevated should my legs be? thanks

Why did Medicare not cover the cost? They said I did not order through a participating facility I called every supplier local, national and international no one would accept Medicare I have 3 insurances Medicare A &B and medicareRX WITH UNITED Healthcare and ChampVA HELP ME! I paid 839.80! OOP

I have wearease capris and custom made knee highs. To get adequate compression The waist band is so tight that I have difficulty taking deep breaths as they squeeze my ribs. Any alternatives? Thanks!

35yr/Secondary Lymph RLeg. Compression daily and no measurable swelling (stage 0 or 1). Lately my ankle makes lots of popping and clicking when rotating once compression is removed. Knee makes crunching sounds and pain when bending. Could compression be too much and causing other issues?

Hi my moms legs are wrapped with compression tape from wound center, can she still use the pump. Her legs are really swollen and hurt. Please help. Thank you

Recently completed arm lymphedema PT. Started wearing arm garment and gauntlet. Hand swelled after using the arm garment alone. Then received the gauntlet, seemed Ok (other than irritation between thumb/finger). Hand swelled last night. Will try finger glove but concerned about thumb irritation. Could amount of compression be culprit?

I developed lymphedema after breast cancer surgery and radiation, which only affects the immediate breast area. PT and FlexiTouch have made little to no difference in 4 years. Can you point me in the direction of helpful information online about breast-specific lymphedema? I cannot seem to find anything.

How often do you recommend professional manual lymphatic drainage massage, particularly in the newly diagnosed?

I have worn class 3 flat knit thigh high compression for the past 3 years. I have developed “bruising” at and above the band, but it disappears by morning. It does not hurt, it is just discolored. Any thoughts as to why?

I had a mastectomy and 9 lymphatic nodes removed. I understand I am now at risk for lymphedema. I used to lift weights before surgery. Should I go back to it or avoid any weight lifting completely?

Happy New Year! I have a tenant who is in need of a lymphatic pump and we have tried contacting several places here in Massachusetts but have been unsuccessful. Is it possible to send me information to where I can purchase this pump via health insurance? Thank you.

Are there comfortable nighttime garments? I didn’t allow myself to realize (I forced myself to comply) how uncomfortable my farrow wraps are until I did a second multilayer wrapping. Sleeping without pinching, rubbing and sliding is amazing. Yes I wear the thick cotton wraps under garments. Thank you!

This condition appeared after thoracic spine surgery. My surgeon, stated it didn't look so bad, and left me with this bubble on my left side. I haven't been able to find anyone to help me with this disfigurement. Hopefully, one of you will be able to help me?

What is your protocol to manage BLE edema with decompensated CHF patients? I'm a lymphedema therapist and our lymphedema bandage is contraindicated with this population, one protocol is to use ace bandage instead of short stretch bandage and only to wrap pts who have20%orgreater ejection fracture? what are your thoughts?

lumpectomy, brachy radiation, 2 nodes under my arm removed July 2018. am an avid tennis player. broke my wrist 5 years ago and always wore an elasticized wrist band for stability. have not used since surgery. Can i still use this? am fearful it will cause lymphodema

I developed mild LE in my arm 6months after BC treatment. My hand near the wrist and thumb joint swelled the first day using sleeve. Resolved overnight then again on day 2. Scared to trigger chronic hand LE. Is a glove the only option? Is compression always the best initialTreatment?

Had lumpectomy (4 axillary lymph nodes removed) have not had problems with lymphedema but told I shouldn't carry pack while hiking. Am rafting Grand Canyon in May and one day involves 9mile hike with pack(25lbs), so need to train with weight and pack. How can I do this safely? Thanks

My 12 year old daughter has recently been diagnosed with primary lymphedema in the legs, and we have been told that she needs to wear compression socks all day. Would like to understand does the length of the compression socks matter, can she alternate with Knee length and full

Do you know why lymphedema would come on or at least become noticable after MLD massage?

a pneumatic pump device is used in managing arm lymphedema after mastectomy , is there any hazard on the surgical bed (of mastectomy ) because of the sequential pneumatic pump , as the pressure is applied on the chest besides the arm and shoulder ?

I have facial lymphadema and my upper eyelid is leaking fluid, trying mld but not making any difference. What should I do?

Dear a case of lymphedema of the Rt. arm after cancer breast surgery is there any hazards of using the pneumatic pump on the surgical bed , as the device garment (jacket) applies the pressure on the chest and abdomen ( beside the arm & shoulder) Thanks

I am 53 and have KTS left arm chest hand and lymphedema car accident 21 years ago triggered it. Can I use the flexitouch pump more than once a day?

Is Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy a valid and effective therapy? I am very familiar with MLD, but only recently heard about Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy. Thank you

Can you please direct me to any research supporting the use of a Flexitouch pneumatic pump in the prevention of the escalation of secondary lymphedema? I have Stage II Lymphedema in left arm/trunk and my insurance is negating what my physician has ordered. Thank you!

I am a survivor of throat cancer but it has left me with lymphedema in my neck area..looking for advice to reduce the swelling and hardness...presently doing self massage therapy but just does not seem to work that well...would like some advice...have a blessed day

My insurance only covers a pump called Bio compression. Will that cause fluid to build up on top of my thigh?

Hi Cynthia, Secondary LE in right leg. 2017 completed CDT & learned MLD plus custom Juzo 20-30 thigh highs which maintained the reduction until recently. My doctor prescribed the Bio Compression pump. There are no CLT therapists nearby. Using factory setting of 45 2XDay-1Hour. Any further advice? Thank you, Jennifer

Hi, What are the guidelines for wearing compression sleeves during air travel for a person who had lymph nodes removed plus radiation. I have never had any symptoms. Thanks!

I have a patient that had mastectomy and lymph dissection done elsewhere and developed severe lympedema of the arm. She has also developed axillary recurrence. She was told she cannot have massage of the affected arm if she has active disease as it make worse. Is this supported? Thanks

Can you offer advice or share experience with post operative compression management of Lipo procedures in the American healthcare system, as the opportunity for hospitalization, covered compression garment (s) is limited or not an option.

Mild secondary lymphedema from SLNB in groin - swelling in thigh and doesn't seem to impact the lower leg. Maintained by daily use of thigh high compression garment. Looking for summer alternative to enjoy splash pad with kids - Capri vs. no garment for temporary periods? Will capri make itworse?

I had a lumpectomy (no lymph nodes removed) 6 months ago. I can't lift any weight or do repeated movements above the shoulder w/o swelling. I got 3 lymph massage from certified LMT. How often should I get massages? What kind? My PT is lost as to what is happening.Anyideas?

I was diagnosed with lymphedema in 2015, following a complete axillary dissectionof my right arm and a subsequent bout with cellulitis. I’m now facing surgery on shoulder of same arm. Is there anything I should be doing pre and postsurgery to reduce the risk of lymphatic swelling? Thanks so much

I developed lymphedema in my left leg during radiation therapy after diagnosed with grade 3c1 Endromentrial carcinoma. The next available appointment to see a lymphedema therapist is May 31st. Other them elevating my leg and wearing Teds what can I do?

I have a hospice patient at home with end stage liver failure and heavy lymphorrea to lower legs. Has anyone used compression wraps to help secure dressings ,reduce drainage and reduce dressing changes? Goals are comfort, safety and to stay at home as long as possible.

Can I perform MLD on someone with Stage 0 lymphedema? Is it just not effective i.e. not yet indicated, or would it be actually harmful?

My 80 yr old mother has lymphedema after having double mastectomy 4 yrs ago. We have tried therapy, compressions but have not had any relief. Her fluid in her stomach and armpits. What we have tried in compression never really fit right. where can we get fitted products at?

I’m an LMT and have been working w a client that had breast cancer therapies including removal of lymph nodes. She comes to me for Cupping massage but I avoid using them on her upper right quadrant and stick with lighter pressure there. Could Cupping help her w lymph drainage?

Hello! What advice you would give someone with LE post cancer treatments, waiting to start the intensive phase of CDT? as there is a 4-6 week wait for insurance clearance. Regular LE precautions, plus might private pay MLD alone help? Thanks!

Is there any test that can help find a way to get my Lymphedema under control? The custom and non custom socks does not work and I have an allergic reaction to them also. I am having a hard time walking when bad. Please help! Thank you

I had my lymph-nods taken out for breast cancer 10 years ago, I started a new job 4 year ago an my arm has not quit swelling since. I have went to therapy an wear a bandage but only makes my hand swell.

HI there I have primary lymphedema in my legs. Been keeping this under control with compressionhose, periodic MLD from PT, elevation. In a flare that is not going away - PT thinks in might be time for a pump as MLD and compression aren't bringing it down. Words of wisdom?

Hello - How do I know which stocking brand is right for me (Juzo, Sigvaris, etc)? Lower extremity thigh highs run about $100/pair and often aren’t returnable. I have a hard time finding stockings that dont crease behind my knee. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Hello, I'm and Occupational Therapist and became a CLT a couple of years ago. I work in a SNF and haven't had any patients with active CA that have had Lymphedema needing my tx until now. I currently have a patient with active blood cancer who has BLE Lymphedema. How do you proceed with tx for patients having active CA? During my CLT certification course I'd recalled my instructor saying she didn't do MLD on patients with active CA. I was under the impression that compression was not contraindicated, but MLD is. However, in our textbook, it indicates that you can do MLD on patients with active CA. I know we can do it on those patients who have had CA, such as those with breast CA that have had radiation tx, but those with active CA would be very concerning. I researched online and most said they wouldn't do it. Please let me know what you do for patients who have active or recent CA. I want to help my patients, but am very concerned that the tx could result in metastases. Thank you!!!

I have lymphedema in my right leg and recently sprained it very badly. My doctor seems unconcerned by it. I'm worried about the extra swelling and healing. It just does not feel right.

Hi there - I have lymphedema in my left arm. Not sure how I acquired it, trauma at some point is all the doctors can figure. After being told to deal with it and wear a compression sleeve from a vascular dr, I was able to get into a therapist that worked with Lymphedema. We did bandaging and I got fitted for garments. Bandaging did not go so well, but I went to MLD sessions weekly for a couple of months and wore my sleeve at times. My therapists has told me that my lymphedema is very mild, as my arm only measures about 1.5cm more then the right arm. I am a thin person, so obviously its very noticeable to me that I have one arm a little larger then the other. At this point therapist says it is stable and for a few years now, I go once a year for maintenance MLD and usually go for about 6 sessions. I wear my sleeve and glove when I fly. I do manual lymph massages every day and that is how I control it. I do replace garments yearly as I do not use them very often. I have a couple of one piece garments that are sleeve and glove in one. I also have two that are sleeve and glove separate. My therapist has now retired, So my question is, do you think this is a good plan of care for my lymphedema? What other advice or management can you give? Thank you

I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 2013 and had a lumpectomy on my right breast. I developed lymphedema in my right arm and a lump/pocket is on my back and right side. I use a pump with arm sleeve at night, wear custom fit compression sleeve during the day and go to lymphedema massage therapy. My arm swelling has improved where during winter months I did not have to wear my sleeve. However, the swelling in my back and right side are very bothersome and cause me discomfort and bloating pain. Is there any type of compression garment to help with this area of swelling?

Hello I have just been diagnosed with mild lymphatic drainage in both my legs. Have you heard of any mild cases being reversed through proper care? I am presuming it occurred when I had treatment 2 years ago as swelling started from there on in my legs. However I only have been diagnosed today as I had a Lymphoscintigraphy test that revealed this. Thank you Felicity

I am having a TKR next month. I have lip edema on the surgical leg. What advise do you have regarding post op healing, treatment and expectations. I am not having much success with anyone knowing what is best post op. I am a Registered Nurse and want to do whatever is best for my healing and recovery. Thanks

Hi I'm a 59 yr old woman who has had primary LE all my life. Been through years of being told there was nothing that could be done until recently. I am now going through phase I of treatment with compression bandaging. My question is , how painful is this supposed to be, I feel like my legs are on fire all the time, can't sleep. The initial wrap they did was foot w/o toes because I asked them not to bandage my toes, she wrapped a 2 inch bandage around my foot about 10 wraps, I felt like my foot was falling off, now they dont wrap my feet, I wear a compression sock ( my feet don't swell normally and with the sock they are still fine) but the bandage feels like its way to tight, I'm in pain (7 out of 10) all the time, is this normal? When they wrap them they pull the bandage as tight as possible, is this normal?

Hello: I have a new LE-PT under a new health plan. I am currently undergoing CDT bandaging. This PT has less than a year experience. I am having several issues. My most pressing one is hand pain on the outside edge of my R hand on the pinky finger side and on the fleshy part of my thumb also on the outside edge. I researched what she could try for the outside edge of the pinky finger, a piece of foam that wraps around the edge. This has been fairly successful, but not always. On the outside of my thumb? Not so much success, despite a bandage, and several pieces of foam in the painful area. I am now at the end of my 3rd week of bandaging and the pain from her bandaging means I wake up at night in pain that ranges from a 4-6 to a 6-8. I have had to take off the bandaging about 4-5 times now because of the severity of the pain. And then it means I am sleep deprived during the day & miserable. I do put on one of my compression sleeves and gloves when I must take off the bandaging. I don't know what she should be doing differently, but since I have had CDT bandaging in the past, I am concerned about what this PT is doing wrong. My first LE-PT that bandaged me botched it 100%. I had no reduction in my arm. I was left instead with an upper arm that ballooned to 27.5" and multiple cellulitis infections. The second PT was in private practice and she was amazing. Wonderful results in under 3 weeks. My care was then transferred back to my health plan and once again, I ended up with a big arm and more cellulitis episodes. BUT -- neither of these first two LE-PTs caused my hand to hurt so badly I woke up crying in agony. Is my latest PT wrapping too tightly? What is going on? To date, my new PT hasn't been too keen on seeking advice. I have had to do it. She is the only LE-PT in my health plan. There is an LE-OT, however, but she has no more experience than the one I have now. I am beside myself over this issue. Can you shed some light on this perplexing problem.

I am a 20 year breast cancer survivor with a mild case of lymphedema. I was told at the time not to lift more than five pounds. Is that still true? Also is there a difference in lifting or pushing the weights and the amount of weight? I do wear a compression glove and sleeve when exercising. Thank you.

I have Lymphedema in my left arm, breast, and trunk. I manage my beast and trunk Lymphedema wearing a compression bra and compression camisole around the clock. On my left arm I wear a compression sleeve and glove at night and if my schedule permits throughout the day otherwise I do not wear the sleeve and glove during the day. I do stretch exercises, yoga, and massage with a Lymphedema massage therapist. I do not think my arm is increasing in size but it is not reducing either. I have read of night compression garments and compression pumps. My primary goal is to decrease the size of my arm but I would also like to be able to move about the day without a compression sleeve and glove, do you think a night compression garment or compression pump would benefit me as a maintenance therapy in decreasing the the size of my arm.

My husband has systemic lymphedema. We can easily wrap the two legs and arms and toes. We tried to wrap the thighs but the bandages always slide down. We have problems wrapping the thighs and abdomen which are also heavily affected. Our physical therapist does not know how to wrap the thighs and abdomen and which products to use. Please advise. Thank you

I am a 72 year old widower. My husband had a heart attack at the age of 39. We adopted a boy at the age of 5 days old and he died at the age of 33. Six months after my son’s death, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had four lymph nodes and a tumor removed from the left breast. My cancer journey started in August 2016 and September 7, 2017 I completed chemo and radiation treatments. I had the HER-2 factor which involved more chemo. My question is that about a month later I developed severe lymphedema in my left arm and leg. I have been with a physical therapist for lymphedema; I have a compression sleeve and glove that I wear almost 24/7. I have the lymphedema pump with the arm and leg sleeve. I have been pumping twice a day for at least an hour or more each time since November 22, 2017 and I have not seen any improvement. What else can I do to release the swelling/fluid especially in my hand? The hand is so tight. I try to elevate it but it is not the easiest thing to do. Looking for some relief! Thank you

Hi Cynthia, I am a physical therapy student finishing up a rotation at a large acute care hospital. This hospital does not have a lymphedema certified PT on staff, and I am planning an inservice to better educate the therapists on lymphedema. That being said, I was wondering what you thought was the most beneficial thing that PTs/OTs can do for patient's with lymphedema in the acute care setting especially when you may only be seeing them for a few days before they are discharged to a new floor or setting. Is education and referral to an outpatient specialist most realistic, or would teaching a patient upper or lower extremity exercises be beneficial? From what I have gathered from asking other providers/professionals in our hospital network, the hospital I am at does not have immediate access to treatment garments and would most likely be unable to receive them in time for patient discharge if ordered. Thanks in advance!

Dear Ms. Schecter, I am a future OTR in training, I am interested in lymphadema, ,specifically the treatments, exercises, and compression garments. I am nearing graduation and wondering how I can get more exposure in this area. I live in San Antonio TX, but any help on how I can proceed will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Cynthia, This is just a test question. When you have a chance, can you forward me the email that you get about this question? Thanks so much! Steve Palmer

I'm 5 months post op mastectomy, ALND and reconstruction. I had severe cording that extended down to my thumb which has improved a lot due to physio I received. I have had to change my physio and I am getting conflicting information. I wonder if you can help. My previous therapist was gentle with the cording, advising strongly against heating and aggressive massages. The current therapist I am seeing believes the exact opposite. She says that cording requires a brutal approach and that if the cording isn't treated it could lead to lymphedema.I do have strange sensations in my affected arm and hand with mild swelling that comes and goes. I am concerned.

I am 80 years old and am traveling on a plane in April. What precautions can I take ? Have you heard of Medshoola Compression Pump? I found this on the internet. It is not FDA approved but it is portable and weighs less than 3 lbs. I runs on battery. I would appreciate any information you can give me. thank you so much. Gratefully yours….Barbara Galler  Thanks again.

My problem that I'm running into is getting my arm wrapped. I leave in a little town that does not provide much knowledge of lymphedema. I do go to a PT in Wichita ks which is 50 miles from me. So she is not much help. I do have a pump that I use once a day for a hr ok. So my life is pretty much keeping the arm up. Medicare will not let someone come in to wrap it because I'm not home bound an don't wanto be. This is all wrong by not letting home health care do this. I had 17 lymphs removed for I'm a stage 4 cancer patient. Went threw chemo an radiation , will have pet scan Feb7th to see if they got it all. It seems like my PT in Wichita is dragging this out an keep putting me off with a compression sleeve. I have to get fluid off arm before she can put me in sleeve. What can I do? Thanks for your time

I am a breast cancer survivor and I have arm and hand lymphedema. I normally wear a sleeve and a full finger hand compression garment but I am a nurse and I am unable to wear the full finger hand garment during my 12 hour shift. It seems like when I wear my sleeve my hand swells up more so I'm not sure if I should wear the sleeve without the hand compression garment any advice?

Hi. I'm writing on behalf of my mom. She has been living with lymphedema for 25 years in one leg following the removal of her bladder and lymph nodes during surgery for bladder cancer. She has been wearing heavy duty compression stockings and pantyhose for the past 25 years with a waist hernia belt around her oestomy. She is now at the age (80) where she no longer has the strength in her hands to manage the stockings the tight waist bands from the garments and pantyhose are hurting her spine. In addition, her mobility is now severely reduced because of pain and the size of her leg. She can no longer walk without the aid of a cane or walker. I've read about different types of stockings with zippers but so far we haven't been able to find anyone who is knowledgable on the issues with lymphedema to help. My mom is still independent and living alone, but this is becoming increasingly frustrating for her and the series of connected issues are affecting her overall physical and emotional health. The local nurses in southern MD have limited experience in lymphedema treatment and tend to gawk more than they help. The place where she gets measured for her stocking doesn't seem to know much either and generally she ends up getting new custom stockings that don't fit right. So here are my questions, given the background above, 1) Has the issue of leg lymphedema in the elderly come up and are others struggling with similar issues regarding compression garments? My mom is a champ and has done well for 25 years... but she is now at a transition point and what used to work no longer is achievable. 2) Is there such a thing as a lymphedema RN or Physician Assistant specialist and if so, how do you find them? Ideally, it would be awesome to find someone who could help us look at the situation and help devise a new holistic management program. She lives in the southern MD/Washington, DC area but we could potentially drive elsewhere if there was someone who could really help. 3) Is there a good source for advice and a creative approach to finding a suitable leg/thigh lymphedema compression stocking that is easier to manage? 4) Do you have any other advice for us? She's also tried flexi-touch but it is way too difficult for her to manage right now. She doesn't have the mobility or hand strength to get the velcro straps in the right places and tight enough to be effective. THANK YOU SO MUCH. This is pretty frustrating but I am guessing she isn't the only one with these issues. Pam

Are there general guidelines for which lymphedema management garments to wear when? I have lymphedema in my legs, pelvic area, and genitals. I am still, I believe, in stage 1, so we started treatment early on and things are going pretty well. I went through 2 weeks of wrapping one of my legs and have since been wearing thigh-high compression stockings with 30-40 mm of compression, a genital pad, and customized compression biker shorts. I wear them pretty much full time except when I exercise, where I wear the stockings and genital pad but just regular biker shorts for comfort. This seems to be maintaining things relatively well. The legs are pretty good, but I continue to deal with swelling in my pelvic area. I have recently been told I should be wearing night garments instead of the compression garments at night because it allows the protein to move. I also have a FlexiTouch that I have been using nightly. Basically what I am looking for is a "day in the life" of lymphedema garment wear. Specific questions are: 1. Should I wear a night garment instead of the compression garments when sleeping? 2. Should I wear the compression garments all day? Because my schedule has not been stable, we have not experimented with not wearing them all day to see how the swelling does, so I guess the question is, is there any harm in wearing them all day? 3. Should I wear my compression garments when I exercise? 4. Can you explain the reasoning (science) for when to wear or not wear compression garments vs. night garments? If there are written documents describing what should be used when, I would appreciate a reference to that as well. I should also mention that I have a urostomy, so that is another consideration for the shorts and how strong the compression should be, so if you have any recommendations in that regards as well, that would be welcome. What modifications are typically made to compression shorts to accommodate a urostomy bag? Thank you very much.

I have suffered from lyphedema for 3 years. This time I have open wounds around the bottom of both legs. They are so bad that they drain heavily, burn, and it's very painful. I use non stick pads, gauze and site bandages then wrap my legs with Ace Bandages. I can not get them to heal. My Dr gave me silvadine(Ms) and it only keeps it moist, I also tried Manuka honey and had a allergic reaction to it. I'm lost, I'm also taking antibiotics because they are so infected. Please HELP!! Thank you for your time. T.Whitman

My wife has stage 2 or 3 lymphedema on her arm, following a double mastectomy. The compression garments have been an exercise in frustration, and bandaging does not seem to be progressing. I have read about compression pumps. How well accepted are they? I have come across 2 makes, Flexitouch and Lympha press. Are there other leading makers? How does one evalluate which pump/sleeve is appropriate? Also, what is your view on low level laser treatment, like the RianCorp LTU-904. It seems to have extensive use in Australia, with much less penetration in the US. Thank you in advance. p.s. if this question is better directed to one of your editorial colleagues, can you please refer it to them? thanks,

Do you recommend specific exercise programs? Someone mentioned MELT, which seems to incorporate yoga...I am not too familiar but I read her blog post regarding lymph brushing so I believe she is aware of LE... I have LE in my dominant arm, hand and trunk due to a traumatic injury. I am ready to engage in more active motion now so I am looking for appropriate activity to strengthen my body.

I have lymphedema. My upper arm is about 18". I had grama arms before getting the lymphedema. I'm not totally happy with my therapist.... This is my problem.... I am a hairdresser. So I can't wear a gauntlet while working. The sleeve is so confining, I get 4 super tight banding from the sleeve, which feels like it stops the circulation in my arm. I still wear it even with the confining and discomfort. I can't wear the gauntlet, because of shampooing customers, or cutting. I have horrible pain on the under side of my arm. She tells me, lymphedema doesn't cause pain. I know better. She sized me for a 7, and I bought a 10, and it's still super tight. HELP ..... I need some suggestions. I'm so frustrated. I do have a tactile compression machine, which I use. I do manual manipulation so each day, also. Thanks so much, Ruth

My daughter is 16 and around 3 years ago her groin swelled slightly. They thought it was a number of things but blew it off. A few years later, her right leg swelled dramatically. We went through everything, cancer, arthritis, etc. She has had only one incident where her foot swelled. Most of the problem is above the knee in the thigh. We did the bandages for weeks on end and she got close to the same on each side. But both times we have tried special garments they don't hold her even though she wears them all day. She is a fit and healthy athlete other than this. The garments do no more for her than the off the shelf stockings which also don't really work. We are both devastated that her weeks of bandaging herself were for nothing and that the therapy didn't work. She had a therapist but she is out on a medical emergency and we don't know if she'll be back and really the vascular surgeon doesn't seem to know anything. I don't know what to do to help her. Please help me, what do I do? Do the pumps make matters worse and cause dependency? I can't stand the thought of putting her in bandages again. She is a really cheerful kid but this is getting to her.

I was just diagnosed with primary lymphedema of both legs 6 months ago after being misdiagnosed for 6 years. I started seeing a lymphedema therapist and learned the basics in regards to bandaging, proper compression and MLD. I also received a pneumatic pump (Flexitouch) that I use on one leg a day for 60 minutes. It seems that once I was diagnosed the problems with my legs have only gotten worse. The legs are well maintained and regain a softer feel when in bandages but long term they are not feasible for me. Bandaging both legs up the thigh is extremely time consuming and limiting. But as soon as I put on thigh high compression stockings of 40-50 mm/mg my legs progressively get bigger day after day. They decrease a bit at night (I do not have a night garment) but get larger and harder as the days go by until I put the bandages back on. I even tried putting a second compression stocking (lighter weight 30-40 mm/mg) over the 40-50. Should I be looking at an alternative like the CircAid, Solaris, or Farrow full leg velcro options to wear on at least one leg in place of the time consuming bandages? Will a night garment help so I can remain in a compression sock without the relapse? Also, how many times a day should I be doing MLD? Is once a day sufficient and should it be done before the pump? All things concerned with the bandaging, pneumatic pump and 45 minutes of MLD the day is quite full. Thank you.

I am 42yrs old and just had a bilateral masectomy and reconstruction. My surgeon was not able to locate my sentinal node during surgery and I am now faced with going back to surgery for an axillary node dissection. I am devastated. I was a very active person with sports and weight training. And am very worried about never getting back to the old me. Can you give me any advice? Things I can do right away to reduce my risk? Thx

I am 70 years old and had a lumpectomy in Sept. of 2014 followed by 3 weeks of radiation. No chemo. In April of 2015 I noticed swelling in a couple of fingers of the hand on the same side as the lumpectomy followed by swelling near the underarm. The latter swelled to the degree of pinkness, redness and finally weeping. That was a staph infection. Got over that with 4 days in the hospital on IV antibiotics. In any case, the fingers are still swollen and the oncologist recommended lymphatic drainage massage therapy which I was going to do in April but the infection stopped that. I am going to resume this month. What are your feelings about this type of therapy?

I've had lymphedema since 2001 from radiation/surgery for a large retroperitonral liposarcoma. I had it under control until I broke my femur and hip last year. Since then, nothing has worked to bring the lymphedema back to my normal. I wear 30/40 Juzo stockings and have worn them for over 14 years. I have a lymphedema pump, a CircAid juxta fit non elastic sleeve. I also exercise. Nothing is working. It's huge and heavy. Is this my new normal? Any advise is greatly appreciated. Kindest Regards, Debra

I have Stage 2 secondary lymphedema, diagnosed about a year after a mastectomy w/lymph node removal and radiation. It is concentrated in my hand and lower arm, with some fibrosis in my lower arm. My therapist recommended that I obtain a compression pump for home use. I've seen reps from 2 different companies. Both offer a sequential gradiated pump with a sleeve and vest. While the products are similar, the companies suggest very different compression settings -- one is at 20-25 mmhg and the other is around 40-45 mmhg. Is there no established medical protocol for what the proper compression setting should be? Could a higher pressure setting actually worsen my lymphedema?

Thank you for making yourself available to answer our questions! It is a relief to know that there is an expert to turn to when the doctors in my area are not as versed about Lymphedema. How important is each of the 4 steps in CDT if someone has Stage II, Primary Bilateral Lymphedema of the lower extremities? I just started CDT and was wondering when MLD should take place and on average, how much time should be allocated to this procedure? Is MLD done each time the bandages are removed if fluid is still present in the limb? Is it a waste of time to do MLD when transitioning to compression stockings? When you have a patient who is initiating CDT, in which the entire lower limb is effected, how long should each CDT session last? If you can break it down as to the amount of time within each of the 4 steps (MLD, bandaging, exercise, skin care) that would be helpful. If someone has bilateral lymphedema is the required time doubled? Do insurance companies regulate the amount of time each session is in CDT or if someone has bilateral lower extremity lymphedema, can the therapist bill for both limbs and twice the amount of time or number of procedures? I am trying to get a handle on standard of care and what I should expect from a CDT session. Thank you for your help! It is much appreciated.

Hello, I am 54 yrs old and was dx with lymphedema tarda in my 20s. I have been very diligent in using compression wear with great success. However over the years the edema has been getting worse. I started with knee highs bilat 30-40 and now have to wear thigh highs. I am very active enjoying yoga, hiking, and biking. I live in New England and during the winter I can "take" wearing the stockings. However during the warmer weather I don't know what is worse, the pain from the swelling or the heat of wearing the stockings. Do you have any suggestions or links to resources perhaps for compression for athlete? Or compression wear that can be worn during the hotter months.

I had breast cancer, had separate mastectomies, one with with axillary dissection (18 lymph nodes removed because sentinel node was cancerous). I have lymphedema in my hand, arm an side. I also had delayed bilateral diep flap reconstruction. I am in search of a bra that has a wide band under the breasts so the bra doesn't ride up, something with adjustable shoulder straps, side of the bra that comes high under the arm, and something that will give me compression on my side or where I can put a "swell spot" or something in without compressing my breasts. Do you know if such a bra exists? I've looked at the compression bras and I don't want to compress my breasts. Other bras I've seen just don't come up high enough under the arm to give comfort because of the side lymphedema. Another problem I have is that I am small. I wear between a 32 and 34 with a small "b" cup.

Do you believe in compression therapy to help lymphedema? I have heard that compression pumps are very helpful. Where can I find one? Thanks, Pamela

I have Lymphadema in R arm not in left . Unfortunately I'm one those % wasn't told I could get Lymphadema from surgery Q: if had 2 lymphnodes removed Fr left arm chances of getting Lymphadema & what to do to prevent ?