Lymphedema & Exercise

The Importance of Exercise

The fear of arm lymphedema developing as a complication of breast cancer surgery is a real concern for survivors. Some worry about this complication as much as the risk of breast cancer itself!

Knowing the myths versus realities of the risks of lymphedema occurring is important. Many survivors think exercise will increase problems but multiple studies completed in the last 10 years demonstrate exercise, especially slow, progressive weight lifting will reduce the chance of lymphedema developing and reduce flares if lymphedema is present. Repeated muscle contraction, as done in exercise, increases lymph drainage to reduce swelling.

Risk Factors for Developing Lymphedema

  • Overweight
  • Inactivity
  • Infections of the extremity
  • Overuse of the affected limb
  • Trauma such as a fall
  • Radiation treatment to the arm
  • Greater than 4 lymph nodes removed from the axilla.

Medical Management of Lymphedema

Multiple options exist for the treatment and long term management of lymphedema. Traditional treatments include Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). This process is performed by a physical, occupational or massage therapist with special training in lymphedema. The components of CDT include manual lymphatic drainage (also called lymphatic massage), compression bandaging, use of a compression garment, exercise, skin care, and education in risk reduction practices.

While CDT is still considered the gold standard for treatment of lymphedema, there are newer options available. The surgical management techniques include lymphaticovenous anastomoses (LVA), and lymph node transfer/transplant. During an LVA, the lymphatic vessels are joined to the venous system to create a bypass around the area of blockage. These procedures are generally done by specialists at larger medical centers that treat breast cancer.

Lymphedema Exercise

A key component of lymphedema management is exercise. Strength and Courage DVD will help you gently and safely start to exercise, improve your shoulder and neck flexibility, and increase upper body strength. It is appropriate for all ages and fitness levels. Be sure to consult with your physician prior to beginning any exercise program.

Breast cancer survivors with lymphedema should wear a well fitted compression garment during exercise!

Mandy Kulifay, DPT, CLT-LANA
Women’s Rehab and Men’s Health specialist
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
UPMC Centers for Rehab Services

Author of Lymphedema and Exercise page

Medical Management of Lymphedema

Multiple options exist for the treatment and long term management of lymphedema. Traditional treatments include Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). This process is performed by a physical, occupational or massage therapist with special training in lymphedema. The components of CDT include manual lymphatic drainage (also called lymphatic massage), compression bandaging, use of a compression garment, exercise, skin care, and education in risk reduction practices.

While CDT is still considered the gold standard for treatment of lymphedema, there are newer options available. The surgical management techniques include lymphaticovenous anastomoses (LVA), and lymph node transfer/transplant. During an LVA, the lymphatic vessels are joined to the venous system to create a bypass around the area of blockage. These procedures are generally done by specialists at larger medical centers that treat breast cancer.

Lymphedema Exercise

A key component of lymphedema management is exercise. Strength and Courage DVD will help you gently and safely start to exercise, improve your shoulder and neck flexibility, and increase upper body strength. It is appropriate for all ages and fitness levels. Be sure to consult with your physician prior to beginning any exercise program.

Breast cancer survivors with lymphedema should wear a well fitted compression garment during exercise!

Mandy Kulifay, DPT, CLT-LANA
Women’s Rehab & Men’s Health specialist
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
UPMC Centers for Rehab Services

Author of Lymphedema and Exercise page

Lymphedema, what you should know

Dr. Kathryn Schmitz PhD, MPH, FASCM, FTOS, professor at Penn State Cancer Institute, discusses the importance of exercise—especially slow progressive strength training—to those at risk or with lymphedema. Dr. Schmitz, formerly of the University of Pennsylvania, was the lead researcher of the Physical Activity and Lymphedema Trial which assessed the safety of progressive strength training in breast cancer survivors. She is the current president of the American College of Sports Medicine.