What is Lymphedema and How Can Therapy Help?
By Dr Evelyn Logie, PT, DPT
If you’ve noticed swelling in your arms or legs, you may be wondering: could it be lymphedema? Lymphedema happens when the lymphatic system, which helps remove waste and excess fluid from your body, isn’t working properly. This can cause fluid to build up, leading to swelling, heaviness, and sometimes discomfort. The good news? With the right therapy, lymphedema can be managed effectively.
Who Can Get Lymphedema?
Lymphedema can affect anyone, but certain people are at higher risk:
- Breast cancer patients: Surgery or radiation around the armpit can affect lymph flow in the arm.
- Ovarian cancer patients: Lymph node removal in the pelvic area can lead to swelling in the legs.
- Patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): Poor blood flow in the legs can overload the lymph system, causing fluid buildup.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Lymphedema can develop gradually, so early recognition is key. Common signs include:
- Swelling in one or both limbs
- Feeling of heaviness, tightness, or fatigue
- Limited movement in the affected area
- Skin that feels tight, stretched, or changes in texture
- Recurrent infections in the limb
If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek an evaluation from your oncologist, vascular doctor as well as a certified lymphedema therapist.
What Does Lymphedema Therapy Look Like?
Lymphedema therapy is designed to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and restore comfort and function. Typical therapy may include:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Gentle massage to encourage lymph flow
- Compression bandaging or garments: Helps prevent fluid from accumulating
- Exercises and movement: Keeps the limb flexible and improves circulation
- Skin care education: Prevents infection and protects the skin
- Ongoing monitoring: Tracks progress and adjusts treatment as needed
How Proclinix Can Help
At Proclinix, our certified lymphedema therapist Dr. Evelyn Logie as well as our licensed massage therapists and Acupuncturists at our various Proclinix locations offer personalized care for every patient. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing swelling from CVI, we provide:
- One-on-one evaluation and treatment planning
- Skilled MLD and compression therapy as determined by your practitioner
- Education on home care, exercises, and skin protection
- Support to help you stay comfortable and active
At Proclinix there are a myriad of highly trained Acupuncturists who would be able to assist with further reduction in limb size and reduce symptom burden on patients. Early research shows that acupuncture can be helpful for the following:
- Reduced swelling and fluid accumulation
- Enhanced overall circulation
- Improved pain management and reduction in discomfort
- Better emotional well-being due to relaxation effects
- Complement to existing conventional therapies
With early intervention and consistent care, lymphedema can be managed successfully, helping you regain mobility, comfort, and confidence in daily life.
Don’t ignore swelling—early treatment makes all the difference. Reach out to Proclinix today to see how we can help.
Resources:
Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. (n.d.). Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. Retrieved October 20, 2025, from https://www.nortonschool.com/.
Cassileth BR, Van Zee KJ, Yeung KS, Coleton MI, Cohen S, Chan YH, Vickers AJ, Sjoberg DD, Hudis CA. Acupuncture in the treatment of upper-limb lymphedema: results of a pilot study. Cancer. 2013 Jul 1;119(13):2455-61. doi: 10.1002/cncr.28093. Epub 2013 Apr 10. PMID: 23576267; PMCID: PMC3738927.