Lymphedema Physiotherapy Edmonton

How do I know if I have lymphedema?

There are two types of lymphedema, primary lymphedema, and secondary lymphedema. When the build-up of lymph fluid occurs naturally, it is referred to as primary lymphedema. But when it is due to alternative conditions or underlying diseases, it is referred to as secondary lymphedema.

Most times, lymphedema occurs when the lymph nodes are removed or damaged during surgery. In most cases, this happens during surgical cancer treatment. For primary lymphedema, the major cause cannot be concluded without an in-depth test. Your orthopedist or physiotherapist will have to perform additional imaging tests using lymphoscintigraphy, CT scan, Doppler ultrasound, or MRI scan to examine the lymphatic system.

Common Causes Of Secondary Lymphedema

Secondary lymphedema is mainly caused by the following;

• Cancer
• Radiation treatment for cancer
• Infection
• Surgery

When someone has lymphedema, you may begin to develop certain symptoms. In most cases, these symptoms serve as an indicator. However, you must know that sometimes symptoms associated with lymphedema usually take a longer time (months or years) before becoming noticeable because of cancer treatment.

These symptoms range from mild (feeling little discomfort or aching in your limbs) to severe (observing lots of changes or feelings lots of discomfort in your limbs and may become difficult to use). It is important you know that at a severe level, it is associated with lots of pains.

Some of the common symptoms include but are not limited to;

• Infections
• Swelling
• Heaviness and tightness
• Aching and discomfort
• Fibrosis
• Limited range of motion.

How will orthopedic or sports physiotherapy treat lymphedema?

Lymphedema requires proper treatment from a well-trained doctor, orthopedist, or sports physiotherapist. Most especially if it is chronic swelling, there are many risks involved. These risks include future injury, infections, and circulation issues.

At Momentum Spine and Sports Physiotherapy Clinic, our specialist will create a suitable treatment plan to treat your lymphedema. Before this treatment is designed, a full physical examination and evaluation will be done, health history and other symptoms experienced will be considered. The lymphatic treatment plans will focus majorly on manual therapy and light exercises.

Treatment for Lymphedema

A special type of manual therapy known as manual lymph drainage is mostly used when a patient has lymphedema. The focus of this special treatment plan helps to ensure the flow of lymph fluid in the upper and lower extremities. Also, additional massage therapy is applied with the treatment plan to provide proper circulation and relief.

Exercising the affected limb(s) is essential because it helps improve lymph fluid drainage while undergoing treatment sessions. Our orthopedist or sports physiotherapist will design your treatment plan, which will include both major therapeutic treatment and exercise to help strengthen your muscles and improve your motion range back to normal.

Begin Your Treatment With Us Today!

If you are experiencing lymphedema or noticing some swelling signs in your arms and legs, or just got back from cancer surgery and want to be sure you are free from lymphedema, contact our clinic today to perform a full examination and begin a treatment that will help eradicate lymphedema or other relating symptoms that could be a threat to your life,

Momentum Spine and Sports Physiotherapy Clinic will help you with a relief program to improve your life and give you the comfort that you deserve.