Understanding Lymphatic Care
Practical information about lymphedema, Complete Decongestive Therapy, compression, garment fitting, skin care, and what to expect when receiving lymphatic care.
Information provided here is for general education and does not replace individualized assessment or medical advice.
What Is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is persistent swelling that develops when the lymphatic system is unable to adequately transport lymph fluid away from tissues. Although it most commonly affects the arms or legs, lymphedema can occur in other areas, including the breast or chest wall, abdomen, genital region, head, and neck.
Symptoms can include swelling, heaviness, aching, reduced movement, recurrent skin infections, and over time, thickening or hardening of the tissues.
Primary Lymphedema
Primary lymphedema develops because of an underlying abnormality in the development or function of the lymphatic system.
Secondary Lymphedema
Secondary lymphedema results from damage to or disruption of the lymphatic system and may occur following cancer treatment, lymph node removal, radiation therapy, surgery, trauma or injury, infection, inflammation, or other conditions affecting lymphatic drainage.
When Should You Seek Assessment?
Consider speaking with a healthcare professional if you notice persistent or unexplained:
- Swelling
- Heaviness or fullness
- Tightness
- Changes in how clothing or jewellery fits
- Reduced movement
- Skin or tissue changes
- Repeated infections in the affected area
Early identification and appropriate management are important because untreated lymphedema can become more persistent over time.
What Is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)?
Complete Decongestive Therapy, or CDT, is a comprehensive approach to lymphedema management rather than a single treatment technique. Individual treatment must be adapted to the patient's clinical situation.
CDT is a coordinated approach that can involve compression, manual techniques, exercise, skin care, and ongoing patient management.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Specialized hands-on techniques intended to support lymphatic fluid movement.
Compression Therapy
Compression garments, wraps, or multilayer bandaging may be used to help manage swelling.
Exercise and Movement
Appropriate movement and muscle activity can support lymphatic and physical function.
Skin Care
Maintaining healthy skin is particularly important because people with lymphedema have an increased risk of skin infection.
Education and Self-Management
Patients learn strategies to manage their condition between appointments and over the longer term.
MLD is one component of lymphatic care. MLD and CDT are not interchangeable terms. A CDT program may incorporate MLD, but it also considers compression, skin care, movement, education, and longer-term management.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized, gentle hands-on technique used as part of lymphatic management.
MLD differs from conventional massage therapy. Lymphatic techniques are typically lighter and are directed according to lymphatic anatomy and the patient's individual presentation. For patients with lymphedema, MLD may form one component of a broader management program rather than being used as the only intervention.
Treatment suitability is determined following assessment, and treatment may need to be modified or postponed when certain medical concerns are present.
What Is Compression Therapy?
Compression therapy is an important component of lymphedema and chronic swelling management. Compression should be selected according to the patient's clinical presentation, measurements, mobility, ability to apply the garment, and other health considerations.
What Happens During a Compression Garment Fitting?
A professional garment fitting is more than choosing a size from a package. As a Certified Compression Specialist (CCS), Javeria provides compression measurement and fitting services for upper extremity, lower extremity, breast and chest, trunk, and other appropriate body regions.
- 1Reviewing the reason compression has been recommended
- 2Reviewing the prescription when applicable
- 3Identifying the affected body region
- 4Taking standardized circumference and length measurements
- 5Assessing limb shape and tissue presentation
- 6Determining whether a ready-to-wear or custom-made garment is required
- 7Reviewing garment style and compression requirements
- 8Checking garment fit and comfort
- 9Providing education regarding application, removal, care, and use
- 10Arranging remeasurement when clinically appropriate
When Should Compression Garments Be Replaced?
Compression garments gradually lose elasticity and compression effectiveness through normal wear, repeated application, laundering, body changes, and changes in swelling.
Replacement frequency varies according to the garment, manufacturer recommendations, frequency of use, changes in swelling or body measurements, and the patient's individual needs.
Contact the clinic for reassessment if:
- A garment becomes noticeably loose
- Swelling is no longer adequately controlled
- The garment becomes damaged
- The garment repeatedly rolls, bunches, or slips
- Body measurements change
- The garment becomes uncomfortable
- Applying or removing the garment becomes significantly more difficult
How Should Compression Garments Be Washed?
Always follow the specific manufacturer's instructions supplied with your garment, as materials and washing requirements vary between products.
Your garment is a medical compression product. Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, as inappropriate washing or drying may damage the garment or reduce its effectiveness.
- Wash garments regularly according to manufacturer directions
- Use the recommended detergent
- Avoid fabric softeners unless specifically permitted
- Avoid excessive heat
- Allow garments to dry according to manufacturer instructions
- Inspect garments regularly for wear, stretching, holes, or damaged seams
Your garment is a medical compression product. Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, as inappropriate washing or drying may damage the garment or reduce its effectiveness.
What Is Cellulitis and Why Is It Important?
People with lymphedema have an increased risk of cellulitis because impaired lymphatic function affects fluid drainage and local immune defence. Cellulitis is an acute skin and subcutaneous tissue infection.
Possible signs include:
- New or rapidly increasing redness
- Increased warmth
- Increased swelling
- Pain or tenderness
- Rash or blistering
- Fever
- Chills or rigors
- Feeling systemically unwell
If you believe you may have cellulitis or another acute infection, contact an appropriate medical provider promptly. Lymphatic or massage therapy should not be performed during an active infection. Please contact the clinic to reschedule your appointment.
Have Questions About Your Care?
I'm happy to discuss your individual situation, answer questions about treatment, or help you understand what to expect. Reach out before your appointment — or book directly through the Noterro portal.