How Physical Therapy Can Help You Reduce Your Chances Of Developing Lymphedema
Do you have lymphedema or know someone close to you who has it? If so, you may be wondering how to manage the condition so you or your loved one can live normally. Lymphedema can make it nearly impossible to handle daily responsibilities. It can also impact overall health and lead to decreased mobility.
Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with this condition on your own. Physical therapy South Austin services can help you get your condition under control and improve your ability to perform daily movements. Even more importantly, physical therapy can help reduce your chances of developing lymphedema in the first place. Here’s how The IV Pro Boca Raton.
What Is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a common condition characterized by swelling of the limbs. In some cases, both the arms and the legs may be affected. In other cases, only one limb might become swollen. More than three million cases of lymphedema are diagnosed each year in the United States. If you have a family history of the condition, you may have a higher likelihood of developing it yourself.
Lymphedema can become a serious medical condition if it causes you to develop infections in your skin. In rare cases, lymphedema may also contribute to the development of a rare skin cancer called lymphangiosarcoma. If you think you have the condition, it’s important to search for “physical therapy near me” and get an official diagnosis so you can begin treatment.
What Causes Lymphedema?
As mentioned, some people may have a genetic predisposition to lymphedema. Other potential causes of the condition include:
- Physical trauma to the lymphatic vessels
- Obesity
- Infection
- Certain heart conditions such as congestive heart failure
- Kidney disease
This is just a small sampling of some of the potential causes and conditions leading to lymphedema.
How Can Physical Therapy Help You Prevent and Manage Lymphedema?
If you have a health condition that puts you at risk of developing lymphedema, being proactive and seeking early care is important. Searching for “physical therapy near me” online and making an appointment with a trusted physical therapist may be one of the most important things you do for your health.
There is no cure for lymphedema. However, physical therapy can help prevent the progression of the disease. A good physical therapist will teach you self-management techniques to keep swelling down. Your physical therapist may also recommend complete decongestive therapy, which is the top-recommended treatment for lymphedema to date. It is a specialized type of massage that encourages the natural movement of lymph and other bodily fluids.
Your physical therapist may also recommend wearing compression garments and applying bandages to the impacted areas of your body. If you’re not a very active person, your provider will most likely recommend that you start exercising regularly. You may also be given dietary instructions to help reduce inflammation and water retention. Follow the guidelines of your physical therapist to reduce your chances of developing lymphedema or manage a current case more effectively. These interventions can all help prevent excessive swelling in the limbs.
