Andrea's passion for improving other people's lives through
exercise, is infectious.
Since attending the workshop, I have helped people with cancer
to make positive changes in their lives, using the information from Andrea.
You've been a true inspiration.
CTF, Certified Personal Trainer, Denver,
CO
Who is a candidate for lymphedema?
Anyone who has had
radiation to, or removal of the lymph nodes anywhere in your body. Being
overweight, elderly, in poor health, poor nutrition, and having an infection,
can increase your risk. For specific exercises to prevent and manage lymphedema,
contact your doctor or
Cancer Exercise Specialist.
Lymphedema Prevention, Identification & Mgmt. DVD
Pilates for lower extremity lymph driange DVD
Pilates Breast Cancer Recovery DVD
Heartflex DVD
Essential Exercises for Breast Cancer Survivors II (book) and DVD
What are the stages of lymphedema?
- Stage 1 (mild) - when you awake in the morning your limb may be a normal size.
The tissue is till in a “pitting” stage (when pressed by a finger the area
indents and holds the indentation). This is called “Pitting Edema.”
- Stage 2 (moderate) - the tissue does not “pit” (when pressed by a finger the
tissue bounces back without leaving an indentation). The tissue has a spongy
consistency.
- Stage 3 (severe) - the tissue at this stage is hard (fibrotic) and will be
unresponsive to the touch. The swelling is irreversible and the limb is very
large and swollen.
How can I prevent lymphedema?
- Avoid insect bites, burns,
skin irritants, hangnails, and torn cuticles.
- Wear loose fitting clothing on
affected area. Avoid tight fitting jewelry on the affected arm or hand
Don’t overheat – avoid saunas, whirlpools, steam rooms, hot baths, and sun
bathing.
- Don’t receive shots, have blood drawn, or have blood pressure taken
on affected arm.
- If you are overweight and have experienced swelling,
losing weight can help reduce it by reducing the amount of fatty tissue which
retains fluid and blocks lymphatic pathways.
- Remember that tennis,
racquetball, golf, and bowling are all considered risky sports for upper
extremity lymphedema and that soccer, running, skating etc…. are risky sports
for lower extremity lymphedema.
- Keep the at-risk area(s) spotlessly clean
and use lotion after bathing.
- Avoid repetitive movements with the affected
area ยท Avoid heavy lifting with the affected or at-risk arm. Never carry heavy
handbags or bags with over-the-shoulder straps on the affected arm.
- When
traveling by air, wear compression sleeves or stockings.