chad2rad 491 Posted August 9, 2012 I have lymphedema that came on suddenly about ten years ago in one leg. I wear compression stocking daily now to keep it in check. Should wrap nightly, too. Has anyone had good results in improving lymphedema after VSG? How has wrapping, swelling, pain changed for you? Exercise suggestions? Thanks in advance. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
isajck 229 Posted August 9, 2012 Not sure how much this site will help but if nothing else it may provide you with someone that has direct experience concerning severe lymphedema and wls. http://www.amylhwilliams.com/ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chad2rad 491 Posted August 9, 2012 Not sure how much this site will help but if nothing else it may provide you with someone that has direct experience concerning severe lymphedema and wls. http://www.amylhwilliams.com/ Thank u, will ck it out. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lml32937 65 Posted August 9, 2012 I have lower extremit lymphedema as well and have the pump- I did the daily bandages, MLD and reed sleeves. Unfortunately due to skin allergies I am unable to wear daily compression garments. However immediately after my surgery my lymphedema improved quite drastically to the point I went 3 mos with no pump- then out of the blue I developed cellulitis in my legs and they swelled like before- I am again on daily pumping and am going to get the circ-aid's soon. Overall it is improved- as you know it will NEVER go away- My doctor says the damage is done and somewhat irrepairable. It is very disheartening too because I was soo looking forward to wearing dresses and skirts and shorts and am still very self conscious with that. ITs unfortunate because if you look on the top people can notice and compliment etc.. but then the bottom half is like WHOA... what happened ... 2 Nacol and chad2rad reacted to this Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lml32937 65 Posted August 9, 2012 and PS that web link is to the person who was first featured on MTV's program years ago- DOnt know how she is doing today- Last I checked her website wasnt updated regurlarly. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chad2rad 491 Posted August 10, 2012 I have lower extremit lymphedema as well and have the pump- I did the daily bandages' date=' MLD and reed sleeves. Unfortunately due to skin allergies I am unable to wear daily compression garments. However immediately after my surgery my lymphedema improved quite drastically to the point I went 3 mos with no pump- then out of the blue I developed cellulitis in my legs and they swelled like before- I am again on daily pumping and am going to get the circ-aid's soon. Overall it is improved- as you know it will NEVER go away- My doctor says the damage is done and somewhat irrepairable. It is very disheartening too because I was soo looking forward to wearing dresses and skirts and shorts and am still very self conscious with that. ITs unfortunate because if you look on the top people can notice and compliment etc.. but then the bottom half is like WHOA... what happened ...[/quote'] Thank you, yes I can't even count why some days are better than others. I know overall I will be getting better. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Nacol 76 Posted September 19, 2012 I have leg lymphedema and am scheduled for the surgery on Friday. I don't wrap my legs at night but I do use the pump daily/wear compression stockings. Just wondering how things are going for both of you now? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
doxieville 799 Posted September 19, 2012 Do you get massages? If not, find a massage therapist who has experience with this condition. My friend is a massage therapist and has a few clients with it and she's improved their life significantly. I would imagine that WLS would help you, but I really am not basing this on anything expect it helps with many health issues. Good luck! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Nacol 76 Posted September 19, 2012 My Lymphedema Doc told me to stop massages to avoid doing more harm in case the therapist didn't have experience. So far, I know of no massage therapist in my area w experience in this area. Staying positive and hoping w exercise/weight loss, it will get better. I have a mild condition--caught very early. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
doxieville 799 Posted September 19, 2012 True, it MUST be a massage therapist who is trained to do it correctly. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lml32937 65 Posted September 19, 2012 Actually it is a physical therapist that is licensed/certified in lylmphedema that should be doing the therapy- MLD/massage. I personally would not trust a regular massage therapist as they can do more harm than good if the massage is not done correctly. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chad2rad 491 Posted September 19, 2012 Manual Lymph Drainage is very specialized in technique, requires special training. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
doxieville 799 Posted September 19, 2012 Yes, you guys are correct and I stand corrected. Sorry! I called her to verify. She went to a 2 year full time credential degee program. She is NOT a massage therapist. I don't quite understand what her degee is in but it's below w full Physcial Therapist. Sorry again. She even told me 'Judy! You do NOT go to a masage therapist for this treatment!'. Opps!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites