- 509.210.1300
- 624 W. Hastings, Suite 11 Spokane, WA 99218
Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid that may occur in various parts of the body due to either the lymphatic system being overwhelmed by excess fluid or a problem with the mechanics of the lymphatic system itself (or both!). It is often a chronic condition.
Some examples of conditions that may overwhelm the lymphatic system with fluid include venous insufficiency, heart failure, immobility, and kidney failure.
Examples of conditions that may result in a mechanical problem within the lymphatic system include genetic disorders of the lymphatic system (which you are born with), trauma, radiation, surgery, inflammation, and infection.
As lymphedema progresses the swelling can restrict mobility and become painful. The soft tissues can become hard and fibrotic, skin can become discolored/dark, dry and flaky, and inflamed; risk of infection will increase; ulcerations can develop (especially in the legs), and the swelling can become disfiguring. As it advances, lymphedema can also result in folds in the skin, wart-like growths on the skin, and fluid leaking through the skin.
In all cases, the root cause of the edema should be addressed. However, regardless of the cause, it is important to treat the lymphedema quickly before it progresses in severity. There is often no cure for lymphedema, however, it can be managed well with the support of a medical professional or team.
Treatment is aimed at reducing the extra fluid and may include a combination of lymphatic massage, education on performing lymphatic massage for yourself, compression garments or bandaging, use of compression devices (ie. Lymphatic pump), skin care, and simple exercises. Successful treatment should result in less fluid in the extremity, wound healing, increased range of motion and activity, reduction in pain/heaviness/weakness and size of the extremity.
Again, we’re not just here to treat you legs, we’re looking out for you!
Are we great at treating legs? Of course! But what truly sets us apart is the warm, personalized care you will receive at our clinic.
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