Strength Training after Lymph Nodes Removed

I only had a a few lymph nodes removed but was also terrified of lymphodema. I am now back to using my arm normally and don't think about it much, However, at the time, I read up a lot on it and the newer evidence seems to suggest that exercise and weight bearing actually helps prevent lymphodema. Probably something to do with helping your lymph system move by staying active.

Hi,

I am in Manchester UK and I was sent exercises by cancer team here and information on what all physical activity to avoid during first 2 months post surgery. Asking a physiotherapist about post surgery exercises  would help. He will send you mild exercises to start with.

Thanks.

Thanks - that´s what I thought but it feels like it depends who you talk to!

Thanks - if you don´t mind me asking, what did they say to avoid?  It is a few months now and my mobility n my arm is fine.  I had massive issues with fluid retention in that area after op but that is fine now.  Some physios here have seemed reticent to say what you can and can´t do and how much weight you can lift.  Just wondered if you had been told anything specific?

Hi,

10 years on from having 13 lymph nodes removed ...

I was told to:

* disinfect (or wash with soap and water) any small cuts on my arm or hand immediately and to cover the cut

* avoid getting sunburn on my arm or hand

* always get blood tests, blood pressure measurements or canulas on the other arm

* stay active!

You'll probably want to work up slowly to your previous levels of activity and stop if you feel pain.

Take care

Miranda

Hi Kate,

no personal experience yet I’m afraid as I’m only three weeks post surgery, but I did have a long chat with my physio about this this week.  She works closely with a lymphodema consultant, and specialises in post breast cancer physio.  Her view is that if you did weights before, you should absolutely start again about 8 weeks after surgery to retain and build strength.  She told me to lower the weight and not strain, and to avoid DOMS as that can cause inflammation and therefore fluid build up.  So dial everything back basically.  But strong muscles are an important factor in lymph flow, and recent studies definitely suggest controlled careful weights either improves lymphodema risk or makes no difference.  The UK NICE guidelines have been updated to say that “current evidence indicates that exercise does not prevent, cause or worsen lymphoedema”.  But obesity hugely increases risk, so any exercise that helps control weight is really beneficial.

Good luck,

Ash

Thanks!

Thanks for that info - and good luck with your recovery!

Hi Kate,

Miranda2 has replied with whatever I was informed. To add on ...I had mastectomy at left side so nurse informed me not to lift my 3year old with left hand. I lift my kid with right hand only. I got letters from NHS  physio to keep excersing at least thrice a week with left hand or it starts getting jammed.

There are cancer support workers at gym who can guide you better. I had backache post chemo so he showed me what all to do at gym.

Thanks.