Recently diagnosed with lymphedema

I also have a lymphedema diagnosis, I am in remission from Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma, but still need to do two rounds of follow up chemo. I thought that I just had bloat from the infusions, swollen feet, puffy face, but then finally got diagosed with Lymphedema.

I am doing rehab at a place that does manual lymph drainage massage.. they also have just taught me how to do it myself as well as suggesting alot of Pilates type exercises. What I've learned is a lot of what I had been doing was wrong.. in terms of exercise I shouldn't be doing weights.. or a lot of things that put pressure on my feet. Aqua aerobics and pilates are more beneficial. Also limite red meat, and do lost of fish and lean proteins. BUt a totally low carb diet doesn't work because then your body has to do too much work to process the protein. I also am doing some accupuncture. I am not that old.. 46, pretty active and totally type A.. so literally I had signed up for Boot Camp right after I was done with Chemo and was trying to eat like nothing. The glands in my arm pits were so swollen!! So as much as I HATE it.. the answer is likely slow, deliberate low impact exercise.. and realizing that some of my weight is bloat.

I want to give you hope though I don't know how severe your case is. I also have Primary Lymphedema of both my legs combined with lipodema. I am 45 and was diagnosed when I was in my 30's. I am extremely active because I absolutely love how exercise makes me feel. I too pay the price for doing high-impact aerobic activities, including Zumba and Insanity, but I still do them. I have found that the leg compression blankets similar to what they put on you in the hospital work great for me. I can bring the swelling down in my legs very quickly with minimal draining massage. I am not so religious about the draining. I encourage you to try these, I also switch it up and wear my leggings (chip pads) on alternate days. You can order them from Hammer Schlemmer check out their website: http://www.hammacher.com/Search/Default.aspx?query=massage boots. The item is called The circulation impoving leg wraps $199. The newest one I received runs longer and is cheaper but there are more tubes. I order that through Amazon It was through a private company The Value Emporium - Item called Deluxe Digital Massage Boots (Fully adjustable) I believe for $125.

Check with your Physical Therapist. I got approval and stamp approval after my Physical Therapist so the results I received. I found out how well I respond to this type of treatment when I went in for a surgery. I haven't had to resort for wrapping in a very long time so I am glad that I found something that works for me.