Lymphedema

Question 1

Lymphedema

Answer 1

An abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid in tissue spaces
Primary- congenital malformation or insufficient development of lymphatic system
Secondary- secondary to a different conditions (ie. Surgical dissection of lymph nodes)

Question 2

Location of edema

Answer 2

Distal extremities (hand or foot dorsum especially)

Question 3

Severity

Answer 3

Quantitative (how much edema)
Qualitative (pitting, brawny, weeping)

Question 4

S&S

Answer 4

Increase limb size
Sensory disturbances
Decreased ROM
Skin changes (fibrosis, brown pigmentation)

Question 5

Interventions

Answer 5

Manual lymphatic drainage
Compression
Elevation
Exercise (AROM, Stretching, low intensity resistance exercises/ Cardio and pulmonary endurance exercises )
Skin and nail care

Question 6

Complex decongestive Therapy

Answer 6

Phase 1
- MANUAL Lyman if drainage
-Compression (low stretch)
-exercise
- skin and nail care
Phase 2
- SELF lym drainage
- compression during day
-exercise
-skin and nail care

Question 7

Breast Cancer related lymphatic drainage

Answer 7

Due to surgery (ex. mastectomy, lumpectomy, segmental mastectomy) and radiation Therapy

Question 8

Impairments and complications related to breast cancer treatment

Answer 8

Post op pain (incisional pain, post cervical and shoulder girdle)
Postop vascular and pulmonary complications (DVT and pneumonia)
Lymphedema
Chest wall adhesions
Decreased GH mobilty
Weakness of UL
Postural malalignment
Fatigue and decreased endurance

Question 9

Intervention

Answer 9

CDT
POstiral ed
UL ROM and strengthening
Gentle massage of scar and Adhesion
Aerobic exercise and functional activities