Practice various exercises according to the instructions of the therapist. Rhythmic exercise can effectively help the lymph flow, reduce oedema and prevent joint stiffness. Be cautious:

• Appropriate type(s) and amount of exercise is of paramount importance as excessive exercise may intensify the swelling
• You can wear compression stockings or bandages during exercise to help reduce swelling

Proper positioning of limbs can help reduce oedema caused by sagging placement or lack of activity.

• Positioning of upper limbs: rest the affected limbs flat on a pillow or on table-top
  
• Positioning of lower limbs: Rest them flat on a chair
  

• Skin care: Keep your skin clean and moisturized. For example, apply body lotion to moisturize your skin
• Keep your fingers especially the clefts dry and clean
• Wear gloves when working to avoid skin damage
• Even minor wounds (such as scratches and mosquito bites) should be carefully cleaned and disinfected
• Use appropriate tools to trim your nails and use an electric razor to avoid cutting your skin with the blade
• Avoid excessive exposure to the sun
• Avoid injection, drawing blood or measuring blood pressure in the swollen areas
• Avoid standing for a long time or sitting with crossed legs
• Use warm water for cleaning or showering
• Do not wear tight accessories or clothing on the affected areas

Consult your healthcare professionals in case of any questions.

If necessary, healthcare professionals would recommend the use of pressure garments to reduce lymphoedema or prevent it from worsening as appropriate.

Occupational therapists will design and fabricate suitable pressure garments for patients according to the related body parts and extent of swelling. Pressure padding would be prescribed according to level of swelling and for scar management as indicated.

Wearing regime: Round the clock (except during shower) or following the instructions of the therapist.

How to take care of pressure garments:

• Change it every day
• Handwash with gentle detergent/washing powder in cold water and rinse properly; do not rub forcefully or wring them
• Refrain from using hot water or bleach; do not expose them to prolonged sunlight or iron dry
• Do not adjust the pressure garments on your own

*If you feel uncomfortable after wearing the pressure garment, such as itchiness or numbness, stop using it and notify your therapist for follow up as soon as possible.

• Lympheodema Management 　[Source: Hospice Home] (Chinese version ONLY)
• Wear compression tubing bandage
  • Clip 1
  • Clip 2

• Lymphedema Treatment and Care