Lymphedema can be quite difficult to manage and often neglected by the patient because of limited access to therapeutic interventions.  In home care, an OT may find it difficult to get the patient started in an exercise program that is effective but it really can be simple.  In this episode, I give examples of 2 active cases I am working with right now and how a simple to follow set of exercises has made a significant difference and taken one patient from a non-ambulatory status to walking into her bathroom (20 feet) with confidence, in just 2 weeks. 
Simple home program for the patient to manage their lymphedema includes:

• diaphragm breathing
• isometrics
• manual drainage
• standing/walking
• diet 
• hygiene

Getting your patient ready to attend outpatient Lymphedema treatment by a certified lymphedema therapist for further evaluation and interventions should be a goal to consider.  You can offer intervention strategies with some basic understanding of lymphedema and confidently get them started towards improved lymphedema management.   

RESOURCES TO CONSIDER
http://www.lymphedemablog.com/2018/03/16/diet-and-lymphedema/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+lymphedemablog+%28Lymphedema%3A+Inform+Yourself+and+Take+Control%29
https://www.lymphcareusa.com/patient/lymph-a-what/ask-elvy/what-is-a-certified-lymphedema-therapist-clt.html

https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/How_to_Do_Self_Lymphatic_Massage_Lower_Body.pdf

REFER TO PRIOR EPISODES
https://www.buzzsprout.com/807851/stats/episodes/2538970-the-first-ot-session-at-home

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