Patient Education

Understanding lymphedema and your treatment options

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling — most commonly in the arms or legs — due to a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid and waste from your tissues. When it isn't working properly, fluid accumulates and causes persistent swelling.

Types of Lymphedema

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Primary Lymphedema

Caused by abnormal development of the lymphatic system. May appear at birth, during puberty, or later in life. Relatively rare.

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Secondary Lymphedema

Caused by damage to the lymphatic system — most commonly from cancer treatment (surgery, radiation, lymph node removal). The most common form.

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Other Causes

Can also result from infection, injury, chronic venous insufficiency, obesity, or other conditions that affect lymphatic drainage.

Common Symptoms

Swelling in an arm, leg, or other body part
A feeling of heaviness or tightness
Restricted range of motion
Recurring infections in the affected area
Hardening or thickening of the skin (fibrosis)
Aching or discomfort
Clothing, shoes, or jewelry feeling tighter on one side

Stages of Lymphedema

Stage 0 (Latent): The lymphatic system is impaired but no visible swelling is present. May feel heaviness or mild discomfort.

Stage I (Mild): Swelling occurs that may improve with elevation. Pressing the skin leaves an indent (pitting edema).

Stage II (Moderate): Swelling rarely improves with elevation alone. Tissue begins to harden (fibrosis). Consistent treatment is needed.

Stage III (Severe): Significant swelling with skin changes, hardening, and increased risk of infection. The limb may be very large. Ongoing management is essential.

How Pneumatic Compression Therapy Works

Pneumatic compression therapy is a clinically proven treatment for lymphedema that uses a specialized medical device to help move excess fluid out of swollen limbs. It's often used alongside other treatments like manual lymph drainage, compression garments, exercise, and skin care.

The Device

A pneumatic compression device (PCD) consists of two parts:

The pump unit: A small, portable controller that generates precisely calibrated air pressure
The garment: A sleeve, boot, or vest with multiple air chambers that wraps around the affected limb or body area

How It Works

The device inflates the garment's chambers in a sequential pattern — starting at the farthest point (e.g., the hand or foot) and moving toward the body. This creates a gentle, wave-like compression that:

Pushes excess lymphatic fluid back toward the body's central circulation
Mimics the natural pumping action of a healthy lymphatic system
Softens fibrotic (hardened) tissue over time
Reduces swelling, pain, and heaviness
Improves overall limb function and comfort

What to Expect

Treatment sessions typically last 30–60 minutes and are done at home, 1–2 times daily. Most patients find the therapy comfortable and relaxing. You can use the device while reading, watching TV, or resting. Many patients notice a reduction in swelling and heaviness within the first few weeks of consistent use.

Clinical Evidence

Pneumatic compression therapy is supported by extensive clinical research and is recommended by multiple medical guidelines. It has been shown to:

Significantly reduce limb volume in lymphedema patients
Improve patient quality of life and mobility
Reduce the frequency of cellulitis (skin infections)
Complement manual lymph drainage and other therapies

That's why Medicare and most insurance plans cover pneumatic compression devices — they work. Learn about insurance coverage →