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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
exercises for lymphedema
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-JS, Dec 14, 2001 12:00AM
Dear Conchi, I spoke with one of our occupational therapists regarding exercises recommended for patients with lymphedema. There really isn't a generalized list and many of the recommendations are based on evaluation of individual characteristics such as age, and general conditioning, and an individualized plan is then mapped out for each patient.
She did offer some general precautions when exercising such as to avoid exercises utilizing high resistance, with a lot of repetition, for example, using a rowing machine. Swimming is an exercise that is usually universally OK, however even here caution against excessive repetitive motions is advised.
For more comprehensive information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is www.clevelandclinic.org - once there, click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.
She did offer some general precautions when exercising such as to avoid exercises utilizing high resistance, with a lot of repetition, for example, using a rowing machine. Swimming is an exercise that is usually universally OK, however even here caution against excessive repetitive motions is advised.
For more comprehensive information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is www.clevelandclinic.org - once there, click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.
