The primary role of the lymphatic system is to maintain fluid balance in tissues, fight infections, and filter harmful substances.
What is lymphedema? Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system loses the ability to efficiently transport lymph throughout the body.
Excessive accumulation of lymph, or lymphostasis, leads to the formation of swelling in a specific part of the limb, referred to as lymphedema.
Various therapeutic methods can alleviate lymphedema symptoms, support lymphatic pathways, and prevent potential infections and complications. There are two main types of lymphedema.
Lymphedema can be primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is genetically determined and arises from complications during the development of lymphatic vessels.
Symptoms of primary lymphedema usually appear in early childhood or adolescence. However, secondary lymphedema occurs much more frequently in the general population.
The secondary type occurs as a result of another health issue that obstructs the normal flow of lymph through lymphatic vessels. This can be due to surgery, injury, or infection blocking lymphatic pathways.
Symptoms of Lymphedema and Swelling of Limbs
Lymphedema of the lower limbs (leg lymphedema) is slightly more common than in other parts of the body.
This area is prone to lymph accumulation due to the pressure created during the day while a person is standing or sitting. Swelling of one leg or swelling below the knee is most commonly observed.
Lymphedema typically affects the lower or upper extremities but can also occur in other parts of the body, head, or genital region.
Symptoms include pain and swelling in the leg, tissue swelling, stiffness, pain, and a feeling of heaviness in the affected area.
One of the most severe complications is reduced mobility in the affected area. Besides functional impairments, lymphedema poses a significant aesthetic problem for most people.
The skin in the lymphedema area thickens, and the limb becomes hard to the touch. In severe cases, lymph leakage (lymphorrhea) or bleeding (elephantiasis) may occur.
Lymphedema of the arm may occur after breast cancer surgery, as a consequence of damage or removal of lymph nodes during the operation.
Lymphedema after breast surgery most commonly occurs following radical mastectomy or lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes).
Lymphedema of the arm gradually develops after surgery and can appear even several years after the operation.
Besides breast surgery, other surgical procedures, certain injuries, infections, tumors, or excessive body weight can also be the cause of lymphedema.
In severe cases of lymphedema, surgical intervention is recommended. Fizionova Center conducts lymphedema treatment using an innovative Protocol 620 without surgery.
Who is Predisposed to Lymphedema?
Risk factors for developing lymphedema include age, as it is more common in older individuals.
People suffering from rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis also have a predisposition to lymphedema.
As mentioned earlier, individuals with obesity-related problems also have a higher chance of developing lymphedema.
Conventional treatment for lymphedema involves a combination of physical therapy and wearing compression stockings.
An arm sleeve for lymphedema can help alleviate symptoms as an additional measure.
In the case of leg lymphedema, wearing compression stockings helps maintain proper pressure on the affected area, preventing further fluid accumulation.
The application of a special massage, known as lymphatic drainage, can reduce swelling and discomfort.
By combining these therapeutic methods, swelling is reduced, lymph circulation improves, and the function of the affected area, as well as lymphatic vessels, remains preserved.
Many people seek a natural remedy for lymphedema, such as lymphedema creams. However, this type of lymphedema treatment is not effective if applied independently.
It is essential to note that certain conditions contraindicate treatment, such as venous thrombosis, certain vascular diseases, active malignancy, or congestive heart failure.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition that cannot be completely cured but can be controlled.
Thanks to available therapeutic treatments, symptoms can be significantly alleviated. People with lymphedema can live without significant limitations today with proper therapy.
It is advisable to start treatment promptly since lymphedema is progressive and can advance to a stage where the functionality of the region is significantly compromised.
Stages of Lymphedema Development
There are three stages or phases of lymphedema development. The first stage involves early fluid accumulation, and the affected region is nearly normal in size and shape.
In the second stage, the swelling increases, and pressure results in visible indentation. At this stage, fibrosis may cause the swelling to become firm.
In the last stage, the swelling becomes "spongy." Warts, fat deposits, and acanthosis may appear on the skin. In the final stage, there can be complete loss of limb function and elephantiasis, where the affected organ significantly increases in size, even multiple times compared to its original size.
It is crucial to begin treatment promptly to avoid complications and progression to severe stages of lymphedema.
Treatment of Lymphedema at Fizionova Center with an Innovative Treatment Protocol
If lymphedema has developed, it is recommended to start the therapeutic process as soon as possible.
Fizionova Center provides lymphedema treatment using an innovative Protocol 620, consisting of the following therapeutic procedures:
- Hypobaric therapy
- Cryotherapy
- Salus Talent
- MFR (Myofascial Release)
- Lymphatic drainage
- Radial waves
- FSWT
These innovative lymphedema treatment techniques lead to significant symptom relief and swelling reduction.
The innovative treatment protocol will enable rapid symptom relief for lymphedema, thereby preserving the functionality of the affected region.
Seek professional help and support if symptoms of the disease develop and schedule an examination at Fizionova as soon as possible.
SCHEDULE A PHYSIATRIST'S EXAMINATION
Dr Jelena Kluz-Đurđević, a specialist in physical medicine
After a conversation with the patient, Dr. Jelena will conduct an examination to obtain a more comprehensive view of your health status, helping to determine whether it's an injury or a diagnosis.
The examination lasts for 30 minutes and includes:
Schedule a specialist examination by calling 011 2100 588 for the cost of 4,000 RSD.