Early Intervention for the Management of Lymphedema
If you’ve recently completed or are undergoing treatment for breast cancer and notice swelling, tightness, or discomfort in your arm, chest, or hand, you’re not alone. These could be early signs of breast cancer-related lymphedema, (BCRL,) a condition that can develop months or even years after surgery or radiation therapy.
At Katherine Jackson Occupational Therapy, PLLC I specialize in the rehabilitation of upper extremity lymphedema using advanced training as an Occupational Therapist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT-LANA.) With timely, individualized care, lymphedema can be effectively managed, and progression can be minimized or perhaps even halted.
What Is Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a buildup of lymphatic fluid that occurs when lymph nodes or vessels are damaged or removed, most commonly due to breast cancer surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. This interruption in lymph flow can lead to swelling, skin changes, and discomfort, often in the arm, breast, or trunk.
Early-stage lymphedema may present as:
- A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the arm or chest
- Visible swelling in the hand, forearm, or upper arm
- Rings, sleeves, or watches fitting more tightly than usual
- Skin tightness, aching, or mild discomfort
- Temporary swelling that resolves overnight
These early symptoms are crucial warning signs and may resolve on their own. But if you experience any of the above, the symptoms most effectively addressed with early intervention. Lymphedema symptoms can come and go. Left untreated, it can get worse.
How OT & CLT-LANA Intervention Can Help
As both an Occupational Therapist and CLT-LANA, I take a comprehensive and functional approach to lymphedema care. My goal is to reduce symptoms, restore comfort and mobility, and empower you to confidently manage your condition long-term.
Your personalized care may include:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Gentle, hands-on techniques to move lymphatic fluid and reduce swelling, performed by a certified expert.
Compression Garment Guidance: Proper fit and use of sleeves or wraps to support lymphatic flow and prevent fluid buildup. Though I do not supply garments, I have a network of local vendors and collaborate to help you find the right fit.
Therapeutic Exercise: Tailored movement to improve strength, mobility, and circulation. The program is individually designed with your comfort and energy in mind. Lymphatic flow is stimulated by muscle movement, so you need to feel confident with your routine.
Skin Care Education: Protecting skin integrity to reduce infection risk and maintain tissue health.
Self-Management Training: Learn how to perform self-MLD, manage compression, and integrate lymphedema care into daily life.
Whole-Person Support: We can work together over time to monitor the stability of your symptoms and adjust your program to promote wellness. I also consider fatigue, postural changes, scar management, and emotional well-being. Your healing as a cancer survivor is more than physical.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Starting lymphedema care at the first sign of swelling can make all the difference. With early-stage intervention, many individuals are able to reverse swelling, prevent progression, and continue to fully participation in life. OT intervention can help you feel more in control and less anxious about your recovery journey.
Healing, Support, and Empowerment: One Step at a Time
Breast cancer survivorship often brings new challenges. But you don’t have to navigate lymphedema alone. With skilled, compassionate care from a therapist who specializes in both function and lymphatic health, you can move forward with confidence.
Supporting Survivors: Lymphedema Care That Meets You Where You Are
If you live near Evanston, IL, click the link below to make an appointment for OT CLT-LANA services.
If you are a long distance from Evanston, IL, I’ve attached a link to the LANA website to help you locate a CLT-LANA practitioner
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