Understanding Your Lymphatic System and Lymphedema

What is the Lymphatic System?

Your lymphatic system is a key part of your immune health. It moves a clear fluid called lymph throughout your body which removes cellular waste, toxins/bacteria, and plasma proteins, in order to keep the body healthy and fight infections.

The Lymphatic System is made up of Lymph Nodes, Lymph Vessels, and organs like the thymus, spleen, bone marrow, and tonsils.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema happens when lymph fluid can't drain properly, leading to swelling — often in the arms, legs, chest, or trunk.

Common causes: Cancer treatment (commonly post- mastectomy surgery, radiation), Infection, Injury to lymph vessels, Rare Inherited Conditions (considered primary lymphedema)

**Good News: Early action can help manage symptoms and protect your health!

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Two Phases of Lymphedema Management

Phase 1: Decongestive Phase
An intensive phase focused on reducing swelling through manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, skin care, and exercise.

Phase 2: Maintenance Phase
A lifelong commitment to self-care, including wearing compression garments, skin protection, exercise, and ongoing monitoring to keep swelling controlled.

Common Lymphedema Triggers

1. Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
2. Infections or untreated wounds (i.e. animal scratches/insect bites)
3. Prolonged inactivity
4. Limb constriction (avoid tight clothing/jewelry)
5. Air travel without compression wear (*may depend on other risk factors)

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Signs and Symptoms to watch for:

1. Feeling of heaviness, tightness, or fullness
2. Swelling in an arm, leg, or chest area
3. Skin changes (hardness, redness, warmth)
4. Clothes, jewelry, or shoes feeling tighter
5. Decreased range of motion

**Early signs can be subtle — don't wait to ask for help!

4 Top Tips for Managing Lymphedema

1. Protect Your Skin
🧴 Keep skin clean, moisturized, and injury-free.

2. Move Your Body
🚶‍♀️ Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, and strength training helps lymph flow.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
🥗 Healthy eating and movement can reduce swelling risk.

4. Wear Your Compression
🧦 Properly fitted compression garments keep lymph moving.

*Adapted from National Lymphedema Network Healthy Habits

**Early intervention is KEY to help manage lymphedema symptoms and protect your health!

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How We Can Help:

At Ilaaj Physical Therapy and Oncology Rehab, we specialize in:

  • Personalized lymphedema evaluations

  • Gentle, effective exercise programs

  • Education on lifelong lymphatic health

  • Manual lymphatic drainage and scar care

Take charge of your health — schedule your lymphedema consultation today!

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