Lower Extremity Lymphedema

Lymphedema of the Lower Extremities Can be Painful – Physical Therapy Can Help

Lower extremities lymphedema can make daily life activities extremely difficult, as it can be a painful challenge to move with ease.

While lymphedema can occur in different parts of the body, lower extremities lymphedema is among the most common.

The condition of lymphedema is caused by disruption or blockage of the lymphatic system due to cancer, surgery, radiation, infection, and in some instances, genetics.

Fortunately, at Blue Ridge Physical Therapy, we have certified lymphedema Johnson City, TN physical therapists on staff who specialize in the treatment of lower extremities lymphedema.

If you are suffering from this condition and are searching for safe and effective treatment methods, contact our Johnson City, TN physical therapy office today to request an appointment.

Garment fitting – a common solution for lower extremities

Lymphedema

You may be wondering, “how will physical therapy help with my lymphedema?” According to ChoosePT,

“Your physical therapist will serve as an important member of your health care team and will work closely with you to design a treatment program to help control the swelling and meet your goals for returning to your activities.”

There are a variety of treatments for lower extremities lymphedema that may be used depending on the severity of the condition.

At Blue Ridge Physical Therapy, we take lower extremities lymphedema  garment fitting very seriously. Through wrapping and compression techniques, it can become much more comfortable for you to walk and move around without pain.

Wrapping

Your Johnson City, TN physical therapist may suggest bandaging the entire limb, in order to encourage the lymph fluid to flow evenly throughout the lymphatic system.

With wrapping, the bandage typically is at its tightest around your fingers or toes and loosens up as it moves up your arm or leg.

Compression

Compression is similar to wrapping, in that it helps to prevent the re-accumulation of lymphatic fluid.

However, it has some slight differences. Pneumatic compression is a special sleeve that is worn on the affected region that is connected to a pump.

This pump will periodically inflate, putting pressure on the limb, and allowing the lymph fluid to circulate away from the affected area.

Compression garments, such as long sleeves or stockings, can also be worn when exercising the affected limb to encourage additional flow of the lymph fluid during physical activity.

Your Johnson City, TN physical therapist may suggest a custom-made compression garment, which he or she will assist in fitting.

How can I get started?

Lower extremities lymphedema can be painful and debilitating, but Blue Ridge Physical Therapy is here to help.

Your lower extremities garment fitting and any additional treatments will be determined upon a thorough physical evaluation, analysis of medical history, and discussion of symptoms, in order to determine what will work best for you.

If you have been diagnosed with lower extremities lymphedema, contact Blue Ridge Physical Therapy today to find out how our specialized lower extremities lymphedema garment fitting and therapy program will help reduce your symptoms and improve your daily life.

Don’t live in discomfort – find relief with us!