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Lymphedema: The Basics

June 14, 2017

Lymphedema is a painful affliction that happens when bodily system designed to help clear infection (known as the lymph system) becomes damaged or blocked. According to the National Cancer Institute, this lymph fluid builds up in soft body tissues and causes swelling. Lymphedema usually affects an arm or leg, but it can also affect other parts of the body.

Linda Hodgkins is the Lymphedema Program Director for the Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network. She answers some of the basics about this disease:

Q: What causes lymphedema?

A: It can be caused by surgery or radiation therapy as a result of cancer treatment. It can also happen as we get older, or have had injuries or surgeries that cause scar tissue, such as knee replacement. It is also common when people are overweight and less active 

Q: What are some of the symptoms of lymphedema?

A: The most common complaints are fatigue and heavy, aching, swollen legs. It can be difficult to find shoes and pants that fit as the swelling becomes more severe. As the legs become more swollen, achey and heavy, you feel less motivated to move, and weight gain often results.  More severe swelling can lead to infections in the legs,  and sometimes even wounds.

Q: Tell us about the treatment that you offer at the Hartford Hospital Rehabilitation Network?

A: We use a treatment called complete decongestive therapy. That includes manual lymphatic drainage, which is a light stretching or massage of the skin, bandaging of the limb to reduce the fluid, AND once the swelling is down we THEN fit a compression sock or sleeve that is worn daily to keep the fluid from coming back.  We do check ups every 6 months or year to replace or renew the compression garment so that it remains effective.

Q: What are some of the myths about lymphedema that you would like to address?

A: Many times people ignore the swelling for years to wait and see if it goes away. Like any disease, it is most effective and efficient to treat swelling in the early stages.  Leaving the swelling in the limb can causes all kinds of skin problems such as wounds and infections.  It’s always best to address it early before complications set in.

Looking for help managing lymphedema? The Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network can assist.