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Topic: question for the experts...

Forum: Lymphedema — Risks, tips for prevention, and info about products that can address the symptoms of lymphedema.

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Posted on: Mar 24, 2007 12:50 PM

Amera wrote:

Hi all, I hope I'm posting in the right place. I do not have lymphedema but am at risk because although I had a snb, I had 9 nodes removed. My surgeon says I'm cleared to do everything--even blood draws from my right arm, but the oncologist says no. She feels that that many nodes is really a dissection. So here's my question: I have a message scheduled for next week. Should I tell them to go easy on my right arm or is this not a worry? I know it sounds silly, but I am really worried about this. I have read some posts about physical therapy and certain massages helping lymp. but do not want to take a chance. Any advice?
Thanks,
Amera Log in to post a reply

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Mar 24, 2007 01:02 PM ravdeb wrote:

I am not an expert nor do I have lymphedema BUT... I only had one node removed and I refuse any blood draws on that side and no blood pressure taken on that side. I'm careful what I lift on that side. We all can get lymphedema...

Hopefully somebody will come by to answer the rest of your question.
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Mar 24, 2007 05:10 PM Binney4 wrote:

Hi, Amera,

Good for your onc! She wins this one hands down, and you're really fortunate that she's so on top of it. (In fact, even a SNB with a single node removed puts you at risk). On the other hand, your surgeon is unfortunately not alone in being unaware of the risk. In this case, information is power!

The kind of massage that is good for LE is very specialized and requires at least 135 hours of specifically LE training beyond the PT, OT or MT certification. It is as gentle as petting a kitten. So if you are going for a massage, you do need to tell them to go easy on that arm, BUT also that entire "quadrant" of your body (think: chicken wing quarter). Your affected arm, hand, side (to the waist), back (to the waist), shoulder, and chest/breast are all at risk for lymphedema and all need tender handling.

There's a Position Paper on Risk Reduction at the National Lymphedema Network web site, here:
www.lymphnet.org
(Lots of other good info, too!)

Stay well!
Binney
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Mar 25, 2007 05:10 AM Amera wrote:

Wow, thanks for the link Binney. So much good information. I have been getting so many mixed messages about what I am able to do. I've heard you are at risk for life but I've also been told it's now 5 years. It's all so confusing. You'd think the person who performed the surgery would know, but I just don't trust that information. Sheesh! Thanks again,
Amera
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Mar 25, 2007 02:07 PM badboob67 wrote:

I think Binney is really an angel in disguise. Ain't she great?

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