A well-balanced exercise program used as part of managing lymphedema can reduce swelling and help to continue with normal activities. Exercises should be customized by a lymphedema therapist and can include:
• Decongestive Exercise—active, non-resisted, repetitive to propel fluid back.
• Abdominal Breathing—movement of the diaphragm for sufficient return of the lymphatic fluid to the bloodstream.
• Aerobic Exercise—uses large repetitive muscle activity, but must be low-risk. Inappropriate weights present a RISK for injury.
• Aquatic Exercise—develops range of motion and flexibility and the hydrostatic pressure acts like a “full body compression garment”.
Marita Dowsett, B.P.T. Physio4U, Physio4u.net