Lymphedema Solutions for the Upper Body

Upper Body Lymphedema Treatment

Flexitouch Plus provides a comfortable, effective, at-home treatment designed to help lymphedema patients get back to their lives.

The Flexitouch Plus system is clinically proven to stimulate the lymphatic system. This advanced pneumatic compression device (lymphedema pump) gives patients a comfortable and convenient way to self-manage lymphedema.

Flexitouch Plus helps relieve arm, hand and upper body swelling caused by lymphedema with effective treatments that are: 

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Upper Body Lymphedema FAQs

What is upper body lymphedema?

Upper body lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition resulting from damage or malformation of the lymphatic system that causes a buildup of fluid in the tissues that causes swelling. While lymphedema can’t be cured, various treatment options exist, from using arm pumps for lymphedema to making lifestyle changes like exercise and a healthy diet, along with compression arm sleeves to promote circulation.

The causes of lymphedema in the upper body can be the result of genetics, which is known as primary lymphedema, or caused by damage to the lymphatic system, known as secondary lymphedema. Secondary upper body lymphedema is more common, and lymphedema risk factors like cancer, radiation therapy, and cancer surgery that involves the removal of a lymph node or damage to nodes or vessels are the most common causes. However, other potential causes include infections like cellulitis, venous diseases like blood clots or chronic venous disease, and injuries from accidents or burns that damage the lymphatics.

What are the symptoms of upper body lymphedema?

The symptoms of lymphedema in the arms and upper body can vary from patient to patient. However, some of the common signs of upper body lymphedema:

• Swelling in the arms, chest, trunk, or abdomen that can range from mild puffiness to noticeable swelling
• Tightness and discomfort in the affected area that can make the skin, clothing, or jewelry feel tighter
• Limited range of motion, which can make it difficult to move the arms, shoulders, or hands
• Changes in skin texture where the skin becomes shiny, thick, or hard, along with discoloration and the development of rashes or blisters.
• Increased risk and occurrence of infections

How do you treat upper body lymphedema?

The treatment of upper body lymphedema involves a multifaceted approach that follows the elements of complete decongestive therapy (CDT). CDT is a noninvasive treatment program that combines in-clinic care and self-management at home. Components of CDT include manual lymphatic drainage, compression, exercise, and skin care:

• Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD): MLD is a specialized massage technique that encourages the flow of fluid throughout the body to reduce swelling. Pneumatic compression pumps for the arm, such as the Flexitouch Plus and Entre Plus systems, are often recommended by doctors for at-home maintenance of swelling and related lymphedema symptoms.
• Compression: Compression garment (sleeves) for lymphedema help improve circulation to reduce swelling and pain.
• Exercise: Upper body lymphedema exercises like arm raises, shoulder rolls, and arm bends encourage muscles to act like a pump to promote the flow of fluid out of swollen areas.
• Skin care: Skin care for lymphedema is a key component of CDT, as it helps reduce the possibility of infection, which can worsen symptoms. Keeping nails trimmed, wearing sunscreen, and wearing moisturizer are all ways to maintain healthy skin.

How long should I wear my lymphedema sleeve?

Compression arm sleeves play an important role in any upper body lymphedema treatment plan. Most lymphedema arm sleeves can be worn throughout the day and taken off at night unless advised otherwise by your lymphedema specialist.

Pneumatic compression devices can be used to complement arms sleeves for a more targeted approach. These arm pumps for lymphedema must be recommended by a doctor and used once per day with various cycles ranging from 12 to 60 minutes . Pneumatic compression devices differ from compression garments, in that they deliver intermittent pressure to create a “work and release” motion that mimics the techniques of a manual lymphatic drainage to promote the flow of fluid.

What is the difference between the Flexitouch Plus and Entre Plus systems?

Tactile Medical’s Flexitouch Plus and Entre Plus systems are both pneumatic compression devices that are designed for the self-management of lymphedema symptoms at home. Both lymphedema products have upper body components for those living with lymphedema in areas like the arms.

The Flexitouch Plus system offers more comprehensive treatment with vest and arm garments to cover the entire chest, arm and hand. ComfortEase™ increases treatment coverage and includes a simultaneous bilateral treatment option for greater efficiency.

The Entre Plus system is another lymphedema compression pump for the arm, but is designed only for the arm and hand. This simple pneumatic compression pump is often required as a first step by most insurance providers. With eight chambers that inflate sequentially from your fingertips toward your body, the Entre Plus system can efficiently move excess fluid from swollen areas.