Lymphedema

Lymphedema is swelling that develops when fluid isn’t drained properly by the body’s lymphatic system, which maintains fluid balance.

Lymphedema is a common side effect of cancer treatment. The swelling often occurs in the arms or legs but can also affect other body parts. You may be more likely to develop lymphedema if you have one of the following types of cancer:

It is also possible to develop lymphedema from a genetic condition, infection or injury.

Whatever the cause, our certified lymphedema therapists can help manage your swelling as part of your personalized care. These cancer rehabilitation specialists are located at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center in Columbia and Goldschmidt Cancer Center in Jefferson City. Certified lymphedema specialists are also available at Capital Regional Medical Center and Sam B Cook Healthplex in Jefferson City.

Lymphedema Symptoms

Signs of lymphedema include:

Swollen arm or leg
Feeling like your clothes, rings, watches or bracelets are too tight
Heavy, “full” or achy feeling in your limb
Noticeably less flexible in your wrists, hands, arms, legs, feet and ankles ·
Dry, dimpled or discolored skin
Skin infections

When to Get Care for Lymphedema Symptoms

If you have limb swelling, ask your doctor for a referral for lymphedema therapy. We suggest treating lymphedema as early as possible. Without treatment, lymphedema can cause severe pain and even life-threatening infections.

Reducing Your Risk of Lymphedema

If you plan to undergo cancer surgery or radiation, we encourage you to contact our team beforehand. A preoperative or pre-radiation evaluation can help reduce your risk of severe lymphedema.

Lymphedema Treatment at MU Health Care

Treating lymphedema is complex and may involve several different approaches to help reduce your swelling.

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

Certified lymphedema therapists (CLTs) use the CDT approach to guide their treatment. CDT includes several noninvasive approaches to manage lymphedema, including:

Manual lymph drainage: Therapists use their hands to drain fluid from swollen areas.
Compression garments or bandages: Help prevent swelling from returning after manual lymph drainage.
Light exercise: Can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Skin care and hygiene: Helps prevent skin changes and reduces the risk of infection.
Education: Empowers you to manage and prevent limb swelling.

Other Noninvasive Lymphedema Treatments

Other lymphedema treatments available at MU Health Care include:

Negative pressure treatment: Uses a device that emits pulses and vibrations to improve tissue drainage and mobility.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): May help drain swelling, particularly for breast cancer-related lymphedema.
Weight management: Can help manage obesity-related limb swelling.

Throughout your lymphedema treatment, we will closely monitor your swelling and other symptoms. We’ll also work with your surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurses and other specialists to adjust your treatment as needed. Our aim is to help you manage your lymphedema and minimize its impact on your function and daily activities.