Lymphedema

Question 1

Signs of edema

Answer 1

• Sudden onset
• dependent position makes worse
• swelling or puffiness of the tissue directly under your skin
• skin that retains a dimple after being pressed for several seconds
• inreased abdominal size

Question 2

TX techniques for edema

Answer 2

• elevate your hand/arm/leg
• manual massage (distal to proximal)
• active/passive range of motion
• use of pressure wraps such as coban, compression garments and or isotoner glovers (wrap distal to proximal)

Question 3

Functions of the lymphatic system

Answer 3

• absorbs excess fluid, proteins, toxins and debris from the interstitial spaces
• revocers and returns substances to the blood circulation that have escaped into the tissues
• regulates the fluid volume and pressure in tissue
• transports lymphocytes and hormones throughout the body
• carries fatty acids absorbed from the small intestines to the blood circulation

Question 4

stages of lymphedema

Answer 4

1. stage 1: lymphedema disappears after the limb has rested in elevation for several hours
2. stage 2: lymphedema does NOT reduce by elevating the limb and the tissue becomes harder and pits
3. Stage 3: “elephantiasis” is characterized by an extreme degree of swelling, thickening of the skin, and production of wart-like protrusions,t issue is brawny and fibrotic

Question 5

Symptoms of lymphedema

Answer 5

• feeling of heaviness, tightness or fullness of the limb
• pain, tired, or achiness feeling
• dry skin
• sores or blisters that leak clear/yellowish fluid
• hard, thick nails
• firm limb and or pitting of the skin
• color changes to the skin (pinkness)

Question 6

contraindications of lymphedema therapy

Answer 6

• acute infection/inflammatory illness (end up spreading around system)
• acute blood clot
• active cancer
• uncontrolled congestive heart failure
• renal failure or severe kidney disease
• acute surgical swelling
• absence of urination