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Remedial Exercises for Lymphedema

A well-rounded exercise program is vital to the health of a patient with lymphedema. Researchers have found that movement during a workout helps drain lymph out of affected area and move it into the bloodstream. Kidneys excrete this excess fluid and it is removed during urination. Exercise is also beneficial for cancer patients because it increases energy and overall well-being.

  1. Aerobic Exercise

    • Cardiovascular or aerobic exercises increase the heart rate over an extended period of time. Some of the best include walking, jogging, bicycling and swimming. These types of exercises enhance circulation of the blood and lymph. They also help divert fluid away from areas affected by the cancer. Inherent fatigue and exhaustion accompany most cancers after treatment; cardiovascular exercise helps decrease that feeling.

    Strength Training

    • Resistance training offers a couple of different benefits for those with lymphedema. The first is that the contraction of the muscles helps to push lymphatic fluid to the chest and away from the affected area. Resistance training also stimulates deep breathing, which helps the tissue receive a sufficient supply of oxygen. This will enable lymphatic drainage. Exercises should be mild to moderate and should not induce pain. If sharp pain is felt, stop immediately.

    Stretching

    • Lymphedema often causes feelings of tightness in the skin and muscles in patients. Simple stretches are encouraged before and after a cardio or strength-training workout. This will help warm up and cool down the muscles. Stretching can help increase range of motion in an affected area and improve flexibility. However, this should be only a part of a comprehensive exercise program that includes cardio and resistance exercises. Also, never start an exercise program without checking with your doctor.

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