
Thick or hardened skin, depending on lymphedema stage.Restriction in range of motion, depending on lymphedema stage.If lower extremity is involved, the swelling is present on the back of the foot.Swelling (called edema or congestion) in one or more limbs (often asymmetric).Here’s what you should know about lymphedema, its treatment, and why compression therapy is essential. neck, genital region, inguinal region, face, etc. However, lymphedema can also occur in other body parts, e.g.
This results in swelling in one or more limbs. Lymphedema is a condition of localized fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. What is lymphedema and what are its symptoms? around the neck, intestinal tract or in the axilla or groin area) and are responsible for the removement of debris, regulation of the protein content of the lymph, the immune response, recirculation of lymphocytes, and re-absorption of water (approximately 5 to 8 liters per day).Įvery day the lymphatic system takes up approximately 10 liters of interstitial fluid. Hundreds of lymph nodes are located within the human body (e.g. Through active contraction of the lymphangiones and restricted back flow of lymph due to the lymph vales, the lymph is transported in proximal direction through the lymph vessels and through lymph nodes. enlarged units with smooth muscle cells between two lymph vessels). The lymph collectors and continually larger lymph vessels have a lymph valve system and lymphangiones (e.g. The fluids are then sucked and pressed into lymph pre-collectors. The lymphatic system is responsible for the majority of fluid uptake from the interstitial spaces. This collection of fluid is carried out by the initial lymph-sinuses, that are blind-ended epithelial lined vessels with fenestrated openings that allow fluids and particles as large as cells or proteins smaller than albumin to enter. The lymph consists of interstitial fluid, proteins (smaller than albumin), fibrinogen, and other coagulation factors, small molecules and ions of the serum and interstitium, leucocytes, immunoglobulins, fat in form of chylomicrons, cellular debris, waste products, and bacteria. Custom-made JOBST compression garments are perfectly fitted and are designed to provide you with more comfort, less symptoms – and ultimately the possibility to live your life to the fullest.Lymph is formed from the fluid that filters out of the blood circulation into the interstitium and taken up by the blind-ended lymph-sinuses. The obesity often seen in lipedema patients may lead to damages in the lymphatic system and induce a secondary lymphedema.Ĭompression therapy is an integral part of the treatment plan for all these conditions.

It most often occurs in the legs and almost exclusively affects women.

