Do's and Don'ts for Lower Extremity Lymphedema Patients
(For Upper Extremity Do's and Don'ts, see below)

Do . . .
Discuss the following changes in the foot or leg immediately with your doctor

• Swelling

• Skin color

• Skin temperature with or without presence of fever

Do . . .
Exercise-contraction of the calf and thigh muscles helps the return of venous blood from the legs back to the heart

• Walking

• Swimming

• Cycling

• Elevate your feet above the level of your heart whenever possible

• Draw letters of the alphabet with your toes once each hour when sitting for extended time

Do . . .
Take preventative measures while traveling/sitting for extended periods of time-lack of movement gives way to swelling of the feet and legs

• Wear compression garments on airplanes

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, especially water

• Perform ankle movements often

• Stretch and exercise you legs at least once every hour

• Elevate legs when possible

Do . . .
Eat a well-balanced diet

• Maintain your ideal weight with a low sodium, high fiber diet

• Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
   

Do . . .
Keep the affected leg extremely clean

• Use lotion after bathing

• Avoid cutting cuticles on the toes

• Shave with an electric razor

• Replace razor heads often

• Avoid extreme temperatures while bathing

Do . . .
Take precautions during pregnancy – ankle swelling occurs with most pregnant women

• Wear gradient compression stockings to reduce venous congestion and support of leg veins

• Talk with your obstetrician about the benefits of compression

Don’t . . .
Compromise the affected leg

• Avoid high-heeled footwear and restrictive clothing

• Seek medical advice if you have or are concerned about any risk factors

• Sit or stand for extended periods of time

• Cross your legs, wear high-heeled shoes or tight-fitted clothing

Do’s and Don’ts for Upper Extremity Lymphedema Patients

Do . . .
Discuss the following changes in arm, hand, finger or chest wall immediately with your doctor

• Swelling

• Skin color

• Skin temperature with or without presence of fever

Do . . .
Take preventative measures while traveling

• Wear compression garments on airplanes

• Bandage on extended flights

• Pack a light carry-on and check all heavy luggage

Do . . .
Eat a well-balanced diet

• Maintain your ideal weight with a low sodium, high fiber diet

• Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages

Do . . .
Take precaution while outdoors

• Use insect repellent

• Use sun block SPF 15 or higher

• Wear gloves while gardening

• Be extra careful to protect the affected arm when playing sports

Do . . .
Keep the affected arm extremely clean

• Use lotion after bathing

• Always dry arm completely especially between fingers and in all creases

• Avoid cutting cuticles

• Shave with an electric razor

• Replace razor heads often

• Avoid extreme temperatures while bathing

Don’t . . .
Compromise the affected arm

• Avoid injections on the affected arm

• Do not get blood drawn from the affected arm

• Avoid having your blood pressure taken on the affected arm

• Avoid wearing any tight-fitting jewelry

Don’t . . .
Over-exert yourself while doing housework

• No lifting anything over 12 lbs.

• No vigorous pushing/pulling motions or scrubbing

• Avoid harsh chemicals that could harm the skin

• Use warm, not hot water to wash dishes

Ph. 1.877.CMS.4415          Copyright 2008          Compression Management Services, Inc         All Rights Reserved