New Book for Patients and Caregivers

In It’s Not Just a Swelling! – LYMPHEDEMA Joachim Zuther provides an up-to-date and comprehensive guide for specifically geared towards individuals affected by Lymphedema, their caregivers, and family members. 133 Images. Paperback and Kindle version

Topics include:

  • Self-Management of Lymphedema (Self-MLD, Skin Care, Compression Therapy, Exercises); includes Instructions for Self-Care with images
  • Nutritional Aspects
  • Lymphedema Risk Reduction, Do’s and Don’ts for Lymphedema
  • Complications of Lymphedema, such as Infections, Cellulitis, Leakage
  • Lymphedema and its Impact on Quality of Life
  • Traveling with Lymphedema
  • Prevention of Lymphedema
  • Treatment and Management of Lymphedema
  • Causes of Primary and Secondary Lymphedema and their Stages
  • Anatomy of the Lymphatic System
  • And Much More

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Tactile Medical

The Author

Joachim Zuther, Lymphedema Specialist. Read more

Complications of Lymphedema

 

Lymphedema is caused by a blockage or dysfunction of the lymphatic system, causing a disruption of the normal flow of lymph fluid, which may result in swelling affecting various parts of the body. Lymphedema most commonly presents in soft tissues of arms and legs; however, it may also affect the trunk, abdomen, head . . . → Read More: Complications of Lymphedema

Compression Therapy and its Role in the Treatment of Lymphedema

 

Compression therapy, applied using padded short-stretch bandages, compression garments, along with alternative materials such as adjustable compression devices or sequential compression devices, is an integral part of lymphedema management. The goal of compression therapy is to maintain and improve the reduction of the swelling achieved during lymphedema treatments.

It is significant to recognize that . . . → Read More: Compression Therapy and its Role in the Treatment of Lymphedema

How to Care for Short-Stretch Compression Bandages

 

Compression bandages (and compression garments – see below) used in the management of  lymphedema should be properly washed on a regular basis to avoid skin cells and oils becoming trapped in the fibers of the  bandages and damage the integrity of the textile. Compression bandages may be machine or hand-washed; machine wash is . . . → Read More: How to Care for Short-Stretch Compression Bandages

Deep Vein Thrombosis and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

 

The post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is an important chronic complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Another condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) may develop following a PTS, which in some cases can be the cause for the onset of lymphedema.

To better understand the mechanics of these conditions, a brief discussion of the . . . → Read More: Deep Vein Thrombosis and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Dos and Don’ts for Lymphedema of the Leg

 

Certain activities may trigger the onset of lymphedema or may exacerbate the symptoms of existing lymphedema. Individuals affected by lymphedema and those at risk for developing it (everyone who has undergone lymph node excision and/or radiation treatments) should observe the following precautions. The “Dos” and “Don’ts” below are based on decades of experience . . . → Read More: Dos and Don’ts for Lymphedema of the Leg

Dos and Don’ts for Lymphedema of the Arm

 

Certain activities may trigger the onset of lymphedema or may exacerbate the symptoms of existing lymphedema. Individuals affected by primary or secondary lymphedema and those at risk for developing it (everyone who has undergone lymph node excision and/or radiation treatments) should observe the following precautions. The “Dos” and “Don’ts” below are based on . . . → Read More: Dos and Don’ts for Lymphedema of the Arm

Lymphedema Cording (Axillary Web Syndrome)

 

A number of patients who underwent axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in combination with breast cancer surgery experience postoperative pain and limited range of motion associated with a palpable cord of tissue extending from the axilla into the arm on the same side. This condition is known as Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS), or . . . → Read More: Lymphedema Cording (Axillary Web Syndrome)

Decongestive and Breathing Exercises for Lymphedema

 

Unlike the heart in the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have an active pump to propel lymphatic fluid back to the bloodstream. Effective lymph flow depends on sufficient muscle and joint activity, especially if the functionality of the lymphatic system is compromised. Decongestive exercises are most effective if performed while . . . → Read More: Decongestive and Breathing Exercises for Lymphedema

Lymphedema Risk Reduction

 

The surgical procedures performed on individuals affected by breast cancer may be mastectomy, partial mastectomy, or lumpectomy. Along with the actual breast surgery for cancer, axillary lymph nodes are removed and/or radiated. As a result of axillary lymph node clearance, the normal lymphatic drainage from the extremity is impaired, and some patients experience the onset . . . → Read More: Lymphedema Risk Reduction

How to Care for Your Compression Garments

 

The primary role of compression garments in lymphedema management is to maintain the reduction of the swelling achieved during the intensive treatment phase of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). A high level of consistency in providing the appropriate compression is crucial in order to avoid re-accumulation of evacuated lymphedema fluid. This consistency is provided . . . → Read More: How to Care for Your Compression Garments