After a cancer treatment, such as surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, you may experience edemaThis is a moisture build-up that can occur due to damage to the lymphatic system or the blood circulationCommon forms are lymphedema after breast cancer, swelling after radiation or fluid retention in the arms and legsThis can lead to a tight or heavy feeling, limited range of motion and sometimes pain.
Fortunately, physiotherapy for fluid retention after cancer help to improve moisture drainage and reduce complaints. In this blog you can read what to expect with edema therapy, which treatments are possible and how a edema therapist in Tilburg can support you in your recovery.
What is edema after cancer treatment?
Edema occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues due to the drainage through the lymphatic system or the blood circulation is disturbed. This can have several causes:
๐น Lymphedema after cancer โ When lymph nodes have been removed or damaged by radiation, the drainage of fluid can be obstructed. This leads to swelling, especially in the arms or legs.
๐น Venous edema โ Damage to blood vessels can cause fluid retention, especially in the legs.
๐น Swelling after radiation or surgery โ Immediately after an operation or radiation, the body may retain fluid around the affected area.
How do you recognize edema after cancer?
Edema can cause various complaints. Do you recognize one or more of these symptoms?
โ Swelling in arms, legs or other parts of the body
โ A heavy, tight or tense feeling in the skin
โ Less freedom of movement in joints
โ A dent in the skin after pressing the swelling
โ Pain or discomfort in the swollen area
If you suffer from any of these complaints, edema therapy at Physi help to stimulate fluid drainage and prevent further complications.
How does physiotherapy help with fluid retention after cancer or radiation?
A specialized edema therapist in Tilburg helps you to reduce swelling and improve your range of motion. This is done with different techniques:
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Manual lymphatic drainage โ A gentle massage technique that helps to better drain fluid through the lymphatic system.
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Compression therapy โ Special bandages or stockings reduce swelling and support fluid drainage.
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Exercise therapy โ Targeted movements and breathing exercises improve blood circulation and stimulate the drainage of fluid.
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Posture and movement advice โ Tips and advice to reduce pressure on the affected area.
What can you expect from edema therapy?
At Fysi we take the time to analyze your situation and create a suitable treatment plan. This is what you can expect during the first treatments:
1๏ธโฃ Intake and research โ We map out how severe the edema is and which treatment is best suited to you.
2๏ธโฃ First treatment โ Depending on your complaints, we start with manual lymph drainage, compression therapy or exercise therapy.
3๏ธโฃ Personal advice โ You will receive tips on exercise, posture and self-management to promote fluid drainage.
Do you want to be able to move comfortably again without having to deal with fluid retention? Our specialized physiotherapists are ready for you.
๐ Schedule an appointment with Fysi now and discover how we can help you.