If you or a loved one has undergone treatment for breast cancer, including radiation or lymph node removal, it’s important to be aware of the risk of developing secondary lymphedema. This condition results from damage or disruption to the lymphatic system, often due to radiation therapy or surgical resection of lymph nodes, which decreases lymphatic resorption and transport. Over time, this can lead to lymphatic insufficiency and swelling
How Common Is Lymphedema?
The incidence of lymphedema in breast cancer survivors ranges from 6% to 70%, depending on the type and extent of treatment received. Early diagnosis and proper intervention are key to preventing the progression of this condition.
Stages of Lymphedema
Lymphedema is typically categorized into four stages:
- ● Stage 0: No visible swelling, but the lymphatic system is already compromised. Patients may feel subtle symptoms such as heaviness or tightness in the limb.
- ● Stage I: Swelling becomes visible and may subside with elevation. Pitting edema may be present.
- ● Stage II: Persistent swelling that doesn’t improve with elevation. Pitting remains, and tissue begins to harden (fibrosis).
- ● Stage III: Advanced stage with significant skin changes such as thickening, hyperpigmentation, excess skin folds, fat deposits, and warty overgrowth. Tissue becomes very fibrotic, and pitting is no longer seen.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early intervention is both effective and cost-efficient, helping to avoid more severe complications. It also improves quality of life and long-term outcomes for breast cancer survivors.
What to Look For: Signs and Symptoms
If you’re experiencing any of the following in the upper quadrant of your body (arms, chest, breast area), it may be time for a lymphedema evaluation:
- ● Heaviness
- ● Swelling
- ● Numbness
- ● Tissue that feels firm or spongy to the touch
- ● Pitting (a dent left in the skin when pressed)
- ● Decreased mobility or comfort in the affected area
During a physical therapy examination, we palpate the tissues to assess for fibrosis, pitting, and overall tissue quality, which helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
5 Tips to Manage Chronic Inflammation
Learn how gentle techniques can support your lymphatic health at home.
Tips to Prevent Lymphedema
● Exercise:
Physical activity, especially low-impact exercises, helps increase lymph fluid movement and muscle pumping activity, which is crucial for lymphatic drainage. Walking, swimming, and cycling are good choices.
● Start Gradually:
If you are recovering from surgery or treatment, start with short exercise periods and gradually increase intensity and duration.
● Listen to Your Body:
If you experience pain or increased swelling, stop exercising and consult with a healthcare professional.
● Wear compression garments if recommended by your provider
● Avoid blood pressure checks, injections, or blood draws on the affected side
Don’t Wait to Get Help
If you’re experiencing symptoms of lymphedema, early support makes a difference. Whether you're dealing with side effects of radiation, have had lymph nodes removed, or want to learn more about how physical therapy can help—
Call today at 805-203-9940 and make an appointment.
Let’s work together to support your recovery, comfort, and quality of life.
