Lymphoedema is getting painful. Help!

hi ShreeG, I had some swelling in my right arm a couple of weeks ago and attempted some self help to try and alleviate the pain. Firstly, there are are some really good videos on YouTube for lymphodema. I followed the one by Kelly Reed who is a specialist in oncology and lymphodema. She has separate videos for left arm, right arm and the same for legs. Secondly, I invested in some compression sleeves which I bought from Amazon. These also help as on the video, Kelly will help you to do some manual drainage which really helps. Thirdly, exercise is the best. I have some small firm foam balls which I squeeze in my hands whenever I’m sitting down. As I’m writing this, I don’t seem to have any swellings so it seems to have cleared. I hope this helps. X

I was referred to Sirona who are lymphoedema nurses and I think run by Macmillan. They have been helpful and measured arm to supply sleeves. When they caused allergic reaction they prescribed barrier cream which has stopped the irritation.

Ask your breast care team to refer you as they also sent exercise sheets which I am doing regularly.

I have flares but on the whole managing fairly well. At the start I could barely move my arm so it helps - good days and bad days but manageable! x