Self-management for Lymphedema

After getting the diagnosis of lymphedema, you are probably overwhelmed by the fact that lymphedema can't be cured and by its time-consuming therapy. It can feel like your lymphedema, and its treatment determines your whole life. Lymphedema treatment often takes time until you notice first success, and it can be hard to stay motivated and continue your therapy.

Therefore, self-management has become an important part of Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT). The integration of self-management into CDT aims to prevent edema rebound and to ensure the long-term success of your treatment.

Self-management means both a deep understanding of your disease and ways to manage your lymphedema on your own and together with your carers. Understanding how the lymphatic system works, the signs and symptoms of lymphedema, and the principles of treating lymphedema can help you discuss and overcome treatment challenges with your healthcare professional (HCP) or your health insurance.

Self-management includes ways to manage your disease independently. You can learn from an experienced therapist how to do a Lymphatic Drainage massage on your own, a technique that is called Simple Lymphatic Drainage (SLD). This can be part of Phase II of Complex Decongestive Therapy, together with:

Exercise with Lymphedema

Skin Care for Lymphedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) 

Compression Therapy for Lymphedema

The success of your therapy also relies on the appropriate psychological and medical support. You can consider joining a self-help group to connect with other people who also have to manage their lymphedema. This can help you to stay motivated and adhere to your therapy. For psychosocial support, it is important to find a therapist who is aware of your disease.

Self-management allows you to participate in the treatment of your disease. It helps to maintain therapy success and to improve your well-being.