Lymphedema treatment (lymphatic drainage, pressotherapy)
lymphatic drainage · pressotherapy · arm swelling after breast surgery · lymphostasis · leg swelling
The treatment reduces the swelling that builds up in an arm or leg. It uses gentle massage, bandaging, compression garments and a machine that squeezes the limb.
For lasting swelling of an arm or leg, for example after lymph nodes were removed or after radiation therapy.
⏱ Duration: a session usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, a course takes several weeks, then upkeep at home
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Exam. Before treatment the doctor examines the limb and sometimes orders a vein ultrasound.
- Skin. Keep your skin clean and moisturized - this protects against inflammation.
- Clothing. Loose clothes, so bandaging your arm or leg is easy.
What to bring
- Your referral and discharge summaries
- A compression sleeve or stocking, if you already have one
- Loose clothing
How it goes
- The specialist measures the size of your arm or leg
- Does a gentle lymphatic drainage massage
- Sometimes a machine cuff is put on that squeezes the limb in turn
- Your arm or leg is bandaged or a compression garment is put on
- You are taught skin care and exercises
- Later, everyday compression garments are fitted
What you'll feel
- The massage is very gentle, not painful
- The machine cuff squeezes noticeably, but should not cause pain
- The bandages feel unusual and warm at first
Afterwards
- Wear the compression as prescribed - without it the swelling comes back
- Protect your skin from cuts, bites and burns
- Move your arm or leg and do the exercises
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The limb is red, hot and you have a fever - call your doctor
- Sudden pain and swelling in the leg or arm
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain - call your local emergency number
- Fingers that are numb or blue under the bandage - take the bandage off and call
Common questions
Will the swelling go away completely?
Often it can be reduced a lot. But the treatment has to be kept up for life.
Can I do massage at home?
Yes, if the specialist taught you. Plain strong massage can do harm.