Lymphedema is a condition that can arise from a variety of differing causes, but the most known is lymphedema following cancer surgeries—particularly lymph surgeries where lymph nodes are removed. The estimated prevalence of lymphedema based on the research of Cormier et al. (2010) and Shaitelman et al. (2015) is as follows: cancer of the breast 15%, gynecological cancers 25%, melanoma 9%, genitourinary 11%, sarcoma 30%, and head and neck 60%.
In Newmarket, Ontario, those affected by lymphedema can find specific resources and supports to address their complex needs of lymphedema management associated with their cancer treatment. This is best served by a registered physiotherapist with Combined Decongestive Training certification, which we have here at East Gwillimbury Physiotherapy. Our Newmarket location is happy to serve individuals who experience lymphedema symptoms or would like to learn more about lymphedema management.
Individuals with lymphedema may experience decreased mobility, swelling, heaviness, and tightness and pain (often achy, sometimes sharp if a scar or cording known as axillary web syndrome is involved). All of the above things can impact a patient during and after cancer treatment, and resources are sometimes hard to find amid the fact that awareness and education are crucial.
For individuals facing the challenge of both cancer and lymphedema, understanding the available physiotherapy and lymphatic management options, as well as local cancer rehabilitation providers properly trained in this population, is essential for a quality standard of care and treatment. East Gwillimbury Physiotherapy offers various clinics to assist these patients on their cancer journeys and post-cancer journeys in learning and working together to manage their lymphedema symptoms. We help them find relief from symptoms and optimize the outcome of their lymphedema diagnoses.
Lymphedema arises from dysfunction within the lymphatic system. This can be from birth or from a factor or multiple factors in life’s path. This system is responsible for transporting the lymph fluid (water, lymphocytes, fat, proteins, bacteria) from and to different parts of the body. The transport of the lymph fluid is influenced by several auxiliary mechanisms, and the lymphatic drainage end point is the venous side of the heart organ.
In secondary lymphedema, as in post-cancer treatment surgeries, there are some risk factors that contribute to a lymphedema diagnosis (this list is not exhaustive, and the relationship is not always linear):
- Surgical removal of lymph nodes
- Radiation cancer therapy
- Obesity or increased body mass index
- Family history
- Other stresses, including other surgeries, circulatory insufficiencies, venous insufficiencies, organ stress, skin disorders, inflammation, or infection
We at the Newmarket location of East Gwillimbury Physiotherapy are here to serve our community and surrounding regions by offering lymphedema management and supporting those in their current and post-cancer journeys.
