Best Practices for Managing Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that occurs when the lymphatic system cannot properly drain fluid, leading to swelling, heaviness, and discomfort—most commonly in the arms or legs. While there is no cure, lymphedema can be effectively managed with consistent care, proper compression, and healthy daily habits.
Below are clinically recommended best practices to help reduce swelling, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.

1. Wear Medical-Grade Compression Daily
Compression therapy is the foundation of lymphedema management.
Medical-grade compression garments help:
Promote lymphatic fluid movement
Reduce and control swelling
Prevent fluid from re-accumulating
Support long-term limb health
For best results:
Wear compression garments daily as prescribed
Ensure the correct size and compression level
Replace garments every 4–6 months as elasticity wears out
Use higher containment options if swelling fluctuates
👉 Explore medical-grade compression garments designed specifically for lymphedema management.

2. Stay Active With Gentle, Consistent Movement
Movement helps activate the lymphatic system and prevent fluid buildup.
Recommended low-impact activities include:
Walking
Swimming
Cycling
Stretching or gentle yoga
Important:
Always wear compression during exercise and increase activity gradually. Avoid high-impact or repetitive movements unless cleared by your healthcare provider.
Learn more about compression garments for daily activity to support safe movement.

3. Practice Daily Skin Care to Prevent Infection
Skin care is critical for reducing the risk of infection, including cellulitis.
Daily skin care tips:
Gently cleanse skin with mild soap
Moisturize daily to prevent dryness and cracking
Inspect skin for cuts, redness, or irritation
Treat small wounds promptly
Avoid:
Tight clothing or jewelry
Extreme heat (hot tubs, saunas)
Sunburn and insect bites
Consistent compression and skin care work together to protect lymphatic health.

4. Elevate the Affected Limb Throughout the Day
Elevation helps gravity assist lymphatic drainage and reduces swelling.
Best practices:
Elevate the affected limb above heart level when resting
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods without movement
Combine elevation with compression when recommended
Even short elevation breaks can significantly reduce discomfort.

5. Maintain a Balanced, Anti-Inflammatory Diet
While diet does not cure lymphedema, healthy nutrition supports lymphatic function.
Helpful nutrition guidelines:
Stay well hydrated
Limit excess sodium to reduce fluid retention
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the lymphatic system
A healthy body supports better lymphedema outcomes.

6. Follow a Personalized Lymphedema Treatment Plan
Many patients benefit from Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which may include:
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
Compression bandaging
Therapeutic exercise
Skin care education
Work closely with:
Certified lymphedema therapists
Physicians or vascular specialists
Compression professionals
If you need help selecting the right garment, visit Body Works Compression for expert guidance.

7. Monitor Changes and Listen to Your Body
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
Sudden increases in swelling
Redness, warmth, or fever
Increased pain or heaviness
Skin tightness or texture changes
Early intervention helps prevent complications.
Living Well With Lymphedema

Managing lymphedema is a daily commitment, but with the right tools, education, and support, you can live an active and comfortable life.
At Body Works Compression, we specialize in medical-grade compression solutions for lymphedema, edema, and chronic swelling—helping you feel supported every step of the way.

👉 Browse our lymphedema compression solutions to find the right fit for your needs.