Lymphedema
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the body due to reduced function of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in transporting, filtering, and removing fluids and waste products, and helps prevent infections. When this system is impaired, fluid builds up, often affecting the arms, legs, or other areas.
Symptoms of lymphedema
- Swelling in one or more body parts
- Heaviness and sometimes discomfort in the limbs
- Tingling and tightness of the skin
- Skin changes and increased risk of infection
- Restricted movement due to stiff joints
- Fatigue and localized pain
Lymphedema often begins with soft, pitting swelling, where pressing the skin leaves an indentation. Without management, it may progress to non-pitting swelling, where the skin hardens due to protein deposits and fluid build-up.
How does lymphedema progress?
Primary lymphedema results from a genetic defect in the lymphatic system. Secondary lymphedema can be caused by trauma, surgery, infections, or chronic venous insufficiency. These factors disrupt lymph flow, leading to fluid retention and related symptoms. Without appropriate care, tissue stiffness can increase and circulation can worsen, raising the risk of fibrosis (connective tissue scarring) and inflammation.
Causes of lymphedema
Lymphedema is generally classified as:
- Primary lymphedema: A congenital condition where the lymphatic system is underdeveloped, such as having fewer or narrower lymph vessels.
- Secondary lymphedema: Develops from damage to the lymphatic system due to trauma, surgery, radiation, varicose veins, or related conditions like lipedema.
How Quadrivas Therapy can help
Quadrivas Therapy supports vascular health, which directly influences lymphatic function. When blood circulation is impaired, the tissue can become congested with fluid and waste products, placing extra strain on the lymphatic system.
- Secondary lymphedema: In cases such as post-trauma, surgery, or varicose veins, impaired blood vessel function often exacerbates lymphatic load. Quadrivas Therapy stimulates blood vessels and surrounding tissues, supporting natural lymphatic flow. This can reduce symptoms and help clients return to daily activities. Maintenance treatments may be needed to sustain benefits.
- Post-axillary surgery lymphedema: This form of secondary lymphedema can be more complex, as the body struggles to compensate for lymphatic loss. Quadrivas Therapy has shown positive outcomes in improving mobility and symptom relief, though ongoing maintenance is usually recommended.
- Primary lymphedema: While the congenital nature of primary lymphedema means the root cause cannot be changed, Quadrivas Therapy can optimise blood circulation to reduce swelling and help prevent complications such as fibrosis and infection. This supports tissue health and may slow symptom progression.
Benefits of Quadrivas Therapy for lymphedema
By focusing on vascular restoration, Quadrivas Therapy reduces lymphatic burden and improves fluid and waste removal. This can result in:
- Reduced swelling and fluid retention
- Improved tissue flexibility and comfort
- Decreased pain and increased mobility
- Enhanced overall quality of life
