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  Sue Kenyon: I'm 61 years old and I have had lymphedema in my right leg since uterine cancer surgery, January 20, 2014. The type of cancer was very aggressive so the surgeon removed 14 lymph nodes in my pelvic area. Until a month ago, I have managed my lymphedema...  moreI'm 61 years old and I have had lymphedema in my right leg since uterine cancer surgery, January 20, 2014. The type of cancer was very aggressive so the surgeon removed 14 lymph nodes in my pelvic area. Until a month ago, I have managed my lymphedema pretty well, my leg would swell during the day, but after bandaging at night it would appear to be almost normal size. My leg has swollen from near my toes to 4' above my knee. I wore compression socks up to my knee and I walked at least 10,000 steps everyday, I also walk 100 laps in the pool 3-4 times a week, I've also tried riding a stationary bicycle. But, nothing seems to help. I'm seeing a PT but she seems mystified as to why the swelling will go dramatically up and down in a week's time. For example, she measured my leg from 7 reference points, one week the total difference in measurements was down 6", but one week later it was up 7 total inches. I've now been on a low-carb, high-protein, low-salt diet for a week. That seems to be helping, but I admit I'm getting rather impatient for prompt results. My PT is suggesting a compression garment that uses velcro. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thank you.  less

  • January 10, 2016

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    Deleted Member Sue hello I have had good results with the uncontrolled swelling by using herbal supplements..specifically Carnivora.com a extract from the Venus fly trap family I encourage you to check it out

    • January 10, 2016
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    Staff Certified Lymphedema Therapist Hi Sue,
    Lymphedema can fluctuate from day to day depending on your level of activity and whether or not you are consistently wearing compression. You sound like you are very active which is great! I would tell you to stick with the therapy multiple...  moreHi Sue,
    Lymphedema can fluctuate from day to day depending on your level of activity and whether or not you are consistently wearing compression. You sound like you are very active which is great! I would tell you to stick with the therapy multiple times per week, learn to self bandage, and get ready to be fit for a proper fitting garment. If you are swelling above your knee than you need more than a knee high garment, most likely a thigh high. Best of luck to you!  

    • January 11, 2016
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    Sue Kenyon What should I be doing at night, the self bandages or the velcro type of garments. I feel like my biggest problem is the inconsistency of self-bandaging. Sometimes I take it off during the night because my toes are numb, other times I wake up and the...  moreWhat should I be doing at night, the self bandages or the velcro type of garments. I feel like my biggest problem is the inconsistency of self-bandaging. Sometimes I take it off during the night because my toes are numb, other times I wake up and the bandage that was around my thigh has fallen and is now around my knee. I'm looking at the Circaid Juxta-fit for the ankle, lower leg, knee and thigh. Should I wear this at night? And, what is your opinion on diet.  

    • January 11, 2016
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    Staff Certified Lymphedema Therapist Hi Sue, the Juxta fit is an excellent garment for nighttime use and it can also be worn during the day if needed. As far as diet, I work with a nutritionist at my facility who makes recommendations for people. Of course, if you are overweight, than a...  moreHi Sue, the Juxta fit is an excellent garment for nighttime use and it can also be worn during the day if needed. As far as diet, I work with a nutritionist at my facility who makes recommendations for people. Of course, if you are overweight, than a good diet is important for keeping your leg edema under control. Great job doing self bandaging BTW! I know this can be a challenge for people, but just knowing that you are capable of doing it is great! It's another tool for your tool box!  

    • January 12, 2016
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    Robert Weiss Specifically, what kind of compression do you wear during the day? You mention "compression socks". These typically are elastic and do not go up to or over the knee, and you are exhibiting swelling above the knee. It sounds to me that you should ask your...  moreSpecifically, what kind of compression do you wear during the day? You mention "compression socks". These typically are elastic and do not go up to or over the knee, and you are exhibiting swelling above the knee. It sounds to me that you should ask your therapist (who must be lymphedema trained and certified) whether you might benefit from a non-elastic, thigh-high, flat-knit stocking.  

    • January 17, 2016
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    EDEFER DELA CRUZ sue take is easy with the exercises you might be overloading the lymphatic system by overworking the Lower extremities. There are remedial exercises , elevation and compression garment that must suit you. I the nursing home where i work especially with...  moresue take is easy with the exercises you might be overloading the lymphatic system by overworking the Lower extremities. There are remedial exercises , elevation and compression garment that must suit you. I the nursing home where i work especially with the elderly we put a liquid limit a day it is MD ordered its called fluid restriction protocols. And always consult your MD . i work closely with MD specialist and Wound care MD when i work with cases.  

    • February 7, 2017
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