Edema, or moisture accumulation, can have several causes, such as lymphedema, venous edema or fluid retention after surgery. This can lead to pain, stiffness and limitations in daily life. Fortunately, physiotherapy for edema an effective solution to reduce these complaints and improve moisture drainage.
In this blog you can read more about the most common causes of edema and discover how a edema therapist in Tilburg you can help alleviate complaints.
Causes of edema: lymphedema, venous edema and fluid retention after surgery
Oedema occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues because drainage via the lymphatic system or blood circulation is not working properly. This can lead to the following symptoms:
- Swelling in the legs, arms or other parts of the body
- A heavy or tight feeling in the affected area
- Less freedom of movement in joints
- Pain or a feeling of pressure
- A dent in the skin after pressing the swelling
Do you suffer from any of these symptoms? Our physiotherapists will be happy to help you tackle the cause and reduce your symptoms.
1. Lymphedema: a disturbed drainage of fluid
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot properly drain fluid from your body. This can be congenital (primary lymphedema) or arise after surgery or radiation (secondary lymphedema).
Symptoms of lymphedema:
✔ Swelling in an arm or leg, often on one side of the body
✔ Heavy, tight or tense feeling in the skin
✔ Skin changes, such as hardening or discoloration
✔ Less mobility in joints
2. Venous edema: fluid retention due to poor blood circulation
What is venous edema?
Venous edema is caused by poor blood drainage in the veins, for example due to varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency.
Symptoms of venous edema:
✔ Swelling in both legs, often worse at the end of the day
✔ Discolored or thinning skin
✔ A heavy or tired feeling in the legs
✔ Risk of open wounds (venous ulcers)
3. Fluid retention after surgery: a common problem
After surgery, the body may temporarily retain fluid in the operated area. This can cause pain and limited recovery.
Common situations where moisture build-up occurs:
✔ After knee or hip surgery
✔ After breast surgery or lymph node removal
✔ After abdominal or pelvic surgery
At Fysi we help you to reduce this fluid retention more quickly, so that your recovery is optimal.
How can physiotherapy help with edema and fluid retention?
A specialized edema therapist in Tilburg can help you with various treatments to improve fluid drainage and reduce complaints.
✅ Manual lymphatic drainage – A special massage technique to stimulate fluid drainage through the lymphatic system.
✅ Compression therapy – Bandages or therapeutic stockings help to reduce fluid retention.
✅ Exercise therapy – Specific movements and breathing exercises to improve blood circulation.
✅ Posture and movement advice – Tips to reduce pressure on your lymphatic system and promote flow.
Do you want to get rid of your edema complaints? Our specialized physiotherapists are ready for you.
👉 Make an appointment directly at Fysi and find out how we can help you.