Exercise and Lymphedema: Safe Movement for Better Health

Can You Exercise with Lymphedema?

One of the most common questions we hear from patients is whether exercise is safe with lymphedema. The short answer is: yes, absolutely! In fact, appropriate exercise is a crucial component of lymphedema management.

Research consistently shows that carefully progressed exercise does not cause or worsen lymphedema and can actually help improve symptoms.

Benefits of Exercise for Lymphedema

Regular physical activity offers many benefits for people with lymphedema:

• Stimulates lymphatic flow through muscle contractions
• Improves muscle pump function in affected limbs
• Supports weight management (important for lymphedema control)
• Enhances cardiovascular health
• Boosts mood and energy levels
• Improves range of motion and flexibility

General Exercise Guidelines

Always Wear Compression

When exercising with lymphedema, wearing your compression garment is essential. Compression:

• Supports the lymphatic system during activity
• Prevents fluid accumulation
• Enhances the muscle pump effect

If you don’t have appropriate compression for exercise, talk to your lymphedema therapist.

Start Gradually

If you’re new to exercise or returning after a break:

• Begin at a low intensity
• Gradually increase duration, then intensity
• Listen to your body
• Progress slowly over weeks to months

Monitor Your Limb

Pay attention to how your affected limb responds:

• Check for increased swelling after exercise
• Note any discomfort or heaviness
• Adjust activity if symptoms increase

Recommended Activities

Excellent Options

Swimming and Water Exercise Water provides natural compression and reduces stress on joints. Many patients find aquatic exercise comfortable and effective.

Walking Simple, accessible, and effective for lymphatic health.

Cycling Low-impact cardiovascular exercise that promotes leg muscle pumping.

Gentle Yoga Modified yoga can improve flexibility and promote relaxation. Avoid extreme positions or hot yoga.

Strength Training Properly progressed resistance training is safe and beneficial. Start light and increase gradually.

Activities to Approach with Caution

Some activities require more careful consideration:

• High-impact activities (running, jumping)
• Heavy lifting without proper progression
• Extreme temperatures (hot yoga, saunas)
• Activities with injury risk to affected limb

Sample Exercise Routine

Here’s a basic routine to discuss with your therapist:

1. Deep Breathing (2-3 minutes)

   • Diaphragmatic breathing to stimulate lymphatic flow

2. Gentle Stretching (5-10 minutes)

   • Focus on affected areas
   • Hold stretches 15-30 seconds

3. Cardiovascular Activity (15-30 minutes)

   • Walking, cycling, or swimming
   • Moderate intensity (can carry on a conversation)

4. Strengthening (10-15 minutes)

   • Light weights or resistance bands
   • Focus on affected limb and core

5. Cool Down (5 minutes)

   • Gentle movement and stretching
   • Additional deep breathing

When to Stop or Modify Exercise

Stop exercising and consult your therapist if you experience:

• Significant increase in swelling
• Pain in the affected limb
• Signs of infection
• Unusual fatigue
• Difficulty breathing

Working with Your Therapist

Your lymphedema therapist can help you:

• Design a safe, effective exercise program
• Determine appropriate compression for activity
• Progress your exercise appropriately
• Modify activities as needed

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about exercise—it’s an important part of your treatment plan!

Ready to get moving? Contact us to discuss an exercise program tailored to your needs and abilities.