A person wearing compression stockings works out in front of a mirror.

Exercise with lymphedema

Exercise and movement increase the lymphatic flow, help to maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall well-being.

How can exercise and movement support lymphedema treatment?

Exercise and movement play an important role in both phases of Complex/Complete Decongestive Therapy – a specific treatment for lymphedema that includes phases of decongestion (Phase I) and maintenance (Phase II).

Regular exercise increases your muscles’ pump activity and thereby improves lymphatic flow. Doing exercise, especially while wearing compression bandages or garments, is an effective way to reduce your lymphedema. Additionally, exercise helps build muscle strength and maintain a healthy weight, which can enhance your emotional well-being by acting as a natural antidepressant.

Increase your activity step by step

The initial goal of regular exercise and movement is to maintain the normal function and mobility of your swollen limb. Depending on your symptoms and the specific causes of your lymphedema, you can gradually increase your activity levels.

Physiotherapy can improve your mobility and joint function. It also supports lymphedema treatment after cancer therapy to reduce pain, treat scar tissue, and maintain or restore your limb's function.

What types of exercise are best for managing lymphedema?

Exercise programs for lymphedema typically combine training to improve flexibility, training to build up or maintain muscle strength, and aerobic exercises.

You can start to implement resistance bands in your training to gradually increase your strength. Training with weights might be an option as well. Good examples of aerobic exercises are yoga, pilates, nordic walking, cycling, or aquatic exercise.

However, since not all exercise programs are suitable for lymphedema, you should always talk about your exercise plans with your Healthcare Professional before starting.

How do I begin exercising?

Consult your Healthcare Professional before you start exercising, as not every type of exercise is suitable for lymphedema. Here are a few things that you should keep in mind:

  • Start slowly and increase slowly. Even if you’ve been exercising before, it’s important to be patient.
  • Avoid overexertion, as this can increase your edema.
  • Be sure to always warm up and cool down.
  • Avoid hot tubes, saunas, and steam rooms, as these can also increase your swelling.
  • Stop your exercise when your limbs feel tired, uncomfortable, or sore.
  • Recovery is important. Get your rest and elevate your limbs at night.
  • Always wear your compression garments during exercise. One exception is training in water, as this would damage the material of your compression garments.

In addition to exercise, balanced nutrition is a key element of a healthy lifestyle.

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