Definition
The term “lymphedema” describes a swelling of the connective tissue beneath the skin, which can be traced back to a congestion of the lymph fluid. The lymph fluid transports nutrients and waste products from the tissue fluid into the venous vessels of the body. Lymphedema occurs when there is more lymph fluid than the lymph vessels can remove.
The causes of lymphedema of the legs can be divided into three groups:
- Obstruction or obstruction of the lymph vessels,
- Destruction of the lymph vessels,
- Reduction in size/misplacement (hypoplasia) of the lymphatic vessels;
The lymphedema of the legs is not curable. In stage 1, it can be transferred to the latency stage through consistent therapeutic measures, a stage in which no swelling occurs despite damaged lymphatic channels. If the disease is more advanced, a good therapy can improve but not cure it.
Treatment/Therapy
Lymphedema of the legs has four stages. The stages range from stage 0, the latency stage, to stage 3, elephantiasis. Only in stage 1, the phase of soft and still compressible swelling, is treatment possible to return the disease to the latency stage.
In the later stages, however, therapy is still advisable to slow down the progression of lymphedema in the legs. An important therapy method is the Complex Physical Decongestion Therapy (KPE). This therapy method consists of four important components: Manual lymph drainage, skin care, compression, movement.
KPE is not suitable in cases of acute inflammation of the lymph vessels, cardiac insufficiency or malignant lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic tissue). Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), which is performed with the therapist’s hands, works through a combination of compression (pressure), movement and breathing. This improves the transport capacity of the damaged lymph vessels and part of the swelling can be reduced and transported away via the lymph vessels.
Good skin care is necessary to prevent inflammation and tearing of the skin. After satisfactory decongestion, compression is intended to prevent further development of lymphedema. Patients are either provided with compression stockings or leg wraps. Exercise therapy additionally supports the treatment of lymphedema of the legs.
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