What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling that occurs when lymphatic fluid builds up in the tissues because the lymphatic system is unable to adequately transport it. It most commonly affects an arm or leg but can also occur in the breast, chest, abdomen, pelvis, face, or genital region.

Symptoms may include:

• Swelling or fullness

• Heaviness or tightness

• Aching or discomfort

• Changes in skin or tissue texture

• Decreased flexibility or range of motion

• Clothing, jewelry, or shoes feeling tighter

• Difficulty performing everyday activities

Early recognition and proper management can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of progression.

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Who Can Benefit From Lymphatic Therapy?

Lymphatic therapy may be appropriate for individuals experiencing:

• Breast cancer-related lymphedema

• Swelling following lymph node removal or radiation

• Post-mastectomy or breast surgery swelling

• Post-surgical swelling

• Chronic swelling of the arms or legs

• Primary lymphedema

• Scar tissue and fibrosis

• Abdominal or trunk swelling

• Lipedema-related symptoms

• Reduced mobility associated with swelling

Your therapist will evaluate the cause and characteristics of your swelling to determine the most appropriate treatment.

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How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Lymphedema treatment is individualized based on the location and severity of swelling, your medical history, and your functional goals.

Treatment may include:

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Manual Lymphatic Drainage

A gentle, specialized technique used to encourage lymphatic fluid movement toward areas where it can be more effectively transported by the body.

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Compression

Compression garments or bandaging may be recommended to help control swelling and maintain improvements between treatments.

 

Exercise & Movement

Specific exercises use muscle activity and movement to support lymphatic circulation while restoring strength, flexibility, and function.

 

Scar & Fibrosis Management

Hands-on techniques may help improve restricted scar tissue, tissue mobility, and areas of fibrosis following surgery or radiation.

 

Skin Care & Education

Learning how to protect your skin, recognize changes, manage swelling, and reduce complications is an important part of long-term lymphedema care.

 

Self-Management

Our goal is to give you the knowledge and tools to manage your condition outside of the clinic. Your therapist may teach self-manual lymphatic drainage, exercises, compression strategies, and other techniques specific to your needs.

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Breast Cancer & Lymphedema Rehabilitation

Breast cancer treatment can affect much more than the breast itself. Surgery, lymph node removal, and radiation may contribute to swelling, scar restrictions, fibrosis, shoulder stiffness, weakness, and changes in movement.

Our therapists can address these concerns together rather than treating swelling in isolation. Treatment may include lymphatic drainage, scar and fibrosis management, shoulder mobility, strengthening, posture, and progressive return to normal activities.

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Post-Surgical Swelling

Swelling is a normal part of healing, but persistent or excessive swelling can contribute to discomfort, stiffness, and difficulty moving. When medically appropriate, physical therapy can help support fluid movement, restore mobility, address scar restrictions, and gradually return you to normal activity following surgery.

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What to Expect at Bercutt Physical Therapy

Your first visit begins with a comprehensive, one-on-one evaluation. Your therapist will review your medical and surgical history, assess the location and characteristics of your swelling, examine your skin and tissues, and evaluate your strength, mobility, and function.

When appropriate, measurements may be taken to establish a baseline and monitor changes over time.

Your treatment plan may include manual lymphatic drainage, compression recommendations, exercise, scar and fibrosis treatment, education, and a personalized home management program.

Our goal is not simply to reduce swelling during your appointment. We want to help you understand your lymphatic system and develop strategies to manage your condition confidently over the long term.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is lymphedema curable?

Lymphedema is generally considered a chronic condition, but it can often be effectively managed. Early identification, appropriate treatment, compression when indicated, exercise, and self-management can help control swelling and maintain function.

 

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle hands-on technique designed to encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid. It is different from traditional massage and should be performed or taught by a clinician with appropriate lymphatic training.

 

Do I need compression garments?

Not everyone needs the same type of compression. Your therapist will determine whether compression is appropriate and can help guide you toward the type and level that best meets your needs.

 

Can exercise make lymphedema worse?

Appropriately prescribed exercise is generally an important part of lymphedema management. Your physical therapist can help you gradually build strength and activity while monitoring your body's response.

 

Can physical therapy help with scar tissue after breast cancer treatment?

Yes. Scar restrictions and fibrosis can contribute to tightness, pain, reduced shoulder movement, and changes in how the surrounding tissues move. Physical therapy can address scar mobility, soft tissue restrictions, strength, and movement as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

 

When should I seek treatment?

Consider an evaluation if you notice new or persistent swelling, heaviness, tightness, changes in how clothing or jewelry fits, decreased mobility, or changes in tissue texture—particularly following cancer treatment, lymph node procedures, or surgery.

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Take Control of Your Lymphatic Health

You don't have to manage swelling alone. Our therapists provide personalized, one-on-one care to help reduce symptoms, improve movement, and teach you practical strategies for long-term lymphatic health.