Carole GibsonQuestion for the experts: I have lymphedema in my leg and will be going to a resort/spa next week where I intend to enjoy a Swedish massage. Is there any problem and/or danger with having my leg massaged?
February 14, 2012
Tessa Warnick
in general we're to avoid massages on any limb affected w/ lymphedema (except your MLD, of course). i.e. deep tissue massage - the typical kind one gets at a spa day.
Carole GibsonJoined this group yesterday and have lots of questions. I suddenly developed lymphedema in my right leg and it's severe. I've been hospitalized at my transplant center three times since October being treated with IV lasix which will bring down the... moreJoined this group yesterday and have lots of questions. I suddenly developed lymphedema in my right leg and it's severe. I've been hospitalized at my transplant center three times since October being treated with IV lasix which will bring down the swelling. However, only IV lasix works, oral doesn't do a thing. What kinds of treatments have others received and what works?
Steve NortonEven if theres a history of DVT and swelling as a result, there should be some collateral blood flow unless its a major vein occluding the whole leg. Compression should address it adequately. Also DVT related swelling is not lymphedema but venous edema... moreEven if theres a history of DVT and swelling as a result, there should be some collateral blood flow unless its a major vein occluding the whole leg. Compression should address it adequately. Also DVT related swelling is not lymphedema but venous edema which responds well as I said to compression only. Lymphedema would involve your foot and probably toes creating a...
Carole GibsonSteve, I was prescribed compression stockings a year before the lymphedema hit because of the DVT swelling and I wore them. Six months ago the swelling got out of control and the stockings no longer fit thus beginning the lymphedema saga. The lymphedema... moreSteve, I was prescribed compression stockings a year before the lymphedema hit because of the DVT swelling and I wore them. Six months ago the swelling got out of control and the stockings no longer fit thus beginning the lymphedema saga. The lymphedema goes from toes to the hip. I have to say the leg is not as huge as it was at the beginning but it's still very...
Carole Gibson
Oh yeah...spoke to Vanderbilt's lymphedema clinic and they have nothing new to offer me except the massage which would mean travelling 300 miles round trip twice a week - not gonna do it.
Steve NortonI understand your dilemma and wouldn't want to make you feel obligated to that kind of travel. A solid course of the proper therapy (CDT) including bandaging and MLD would be missing piece though since it always works when the therapist is well trained.... moreI understand your dilemma and wouldn't want to make you feel obligated to that kind of travel. A solid course of the proper therapy (CDT) including bandaging and MLD would be missing piece though since it always works when the therapist is well trained. Is there anyone you could stay with so that 2-3 weeks of intensive therapy could be undertaken? I also wonder if...
Carole GibsonSteve, I've already had months of daily bandaging with a PT who has a PhD plus the PTs during my three stays in the hospital lately. I know I've had well-trained therapists, just not the massage therapy because it's too time consuming for hospital... moreSteve, I've already had months of daily bandaging with a PT who has a PhD plus the PTs during my three stays in the hospital lately. I know I've had well-trained therapists, just not the massage therapy because it's too time consuming for hospital personnel and the rehab company where I got the daily wraps (they just don't do it). I'm on disability with Medicare...
Carole GibsonJust joined a few minutes ago....severe lymphedema in my right leg...diagnosed about 6 months ago...doing the wrap and compression stockings....hoping to get more help from Vanderbuilt in Nashville.....hoping for more information and support on this site....Thanks!
