Bee lymphedema and other forms of edema exercise can be a challenge, but it is important to stay active. Regular exercise helps the to stimulate moisture drainage, improve blood circulation and reduce stiffness. However, not every form of exercise is suitable. Some sports can worsen swelling, while others help to reduce symptoms.
In this blog you will discover which sports are suitable for edema, which movements you should avoid and inspiring exercises that are safe and effective.
Why is exercise with edema important?
People with lymphedema, venous edema or fluid retention after surgery can benefit from regular, controlled exercise. Benefits of exercising with edema include:
✅ Stimulates moisture drainage by activating the functioning of the lymphatic system.
✅ Improves blood circulation and prevents further moisture build-up.
✅ Reduces stiffness and tension in muscles and joints.
✅ Strengthens muscles and joint stability, which can prevent further complaints.
However, it is important to choose the right sports and exercises.
Which sport is best for edema?
In edema, sports in which the muscles tense and relax rhythmically are often the most effective. Suitable sports are:
🏊 Swimming – The water pressure acts as a natural compression and helps with moisture drainage.
🚶 Walking – Stimulates blood circulation and is easy to adapt to your load capacity.
🚴 Misuse – Low impact on joints and good for blood circulation in the legs.
🧘 Yoga or pilates – Helps with relaxation and stimulates lymphatic flow without overload.
🏋️ Light strength training – Strengthens muscles, but be careful not to train with weights that are too heavy.
When strength training it is important to build up gradually and work with low weights and more repetitions.
What is not allowed in case of edema?
Not every sport is suitable if you suffer from fluid retention. Here are some activities that you should avoid or perform with caution:
❌ Contact sports such as football and basketball – Bumps and injuries can increase swelling.
❌ Explosive strength training – Excessive loading can disrupt lymphatic drainage.
❌ Sitting still for long periods or static exercises – Exercise actually helps to stimulate the drainage of fluids.
❌ Exercising without compression stockings (if prescribed) – Compression can support the functioning of the lymphatic system.
Which exercises help with fluid retention?
In addition to sports, there are specific exercises that help reduce fluid retention. Try these simple and effective moves:
✔ Foot and ankle movements – Pull your toes towards you and stretch them out again (good for moisture drainage in the legs).
✔ Light arm exercises – Circular movements with the arms to activate the lymphatic flow.
✔ Breathing exercises – Deep breathing through the abdomen helps to improve lymphatic circulation.
✔ Light squats (squats without weight) – Helps with moisture drainage in the legs.
✔ Recumbent cycling (making pedaling movements while lying on your back) – Stimulates blood circulation without strain.
Want a personalized exercise program? A physiotherapist specialized in edema therapy can help you with a tailor-made approach.
Physiotherapy for sports with edema
At Fysi we help you to keep moving responsibly, without your complaints getting worse. This is what you can expect from our guidance:
1️⃣ Personal intake – We analyze your situation and determine what is safe and effective.
2️⃣ Exercise advice – We provide advice on suitable sports and exercises for your situation.
3️⃣ Exercise therapy – Aimed at stimulating moisture drainage and improving your mobility.
Do you want to keep moving responsibly with edema? Our specialized physiotherapists are happy to help you!
👉 Make an appointment with Fysi now and discover the possibilities!