Lymphedema — chronic accumulation of protein-rich interstitial fluid from lymphatic system impairment — affects 5–6 million Americans, predominantly as a consequence of cancer surgery and radiation damaging regional lymph nodes. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is the most prevalent, affecting 20–30% of axillary node dissection patients, with lower limb lymphedema common after pelvic node dissection for gynecologic, colorectal, and urologic cancers. Unlike edema from venous insufficiency, lymphedema is caused by inadequate lymphatic drainage capacity rather than increased capillary filtration — requiring specialized treatment targeting lymphatic stimulation rather than simple compression. Our orthopedic and rehabilitation catalog and wound care section include lymphedema management products.
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT): The Evidence-Based Standard
CDT is the gold-standard treatment for lymphedema, endorsed by the American Cancer Society, Lymphatic Education and Research Network, and International Society of Lymphology. CDT consists of two phases: Intensive phase (typically 2–4 weeks of daily treatment): Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD — specialized massage technique that stimulates lymphatic vessels and reroutes flow around damaged lymphatic territories); multilayer short-stretch compression bandaging applied between MLD sessions; meticulous skin care; and remedial exercises. Maintenance phase: ongoing self-MLD, compression garments worn during waking hours, continued exercises, and skin care. CDT reduces limb volume by 50–70% in the intensive phase; maintenance CDT preserves reduction long-term with garment compliance as the primary adherence challenge.
Compression Garments: The Maintenance Lifeline
Compression garments for lymphedema are distinct from those used for venous insufficiency: flat-knit construction (vs circular knit) provides lower elastic coefficient and higher working pressure appropriate for lymphedematous tissue; custom fitting by a certified lymphedema therapist or fitter is recommended for optimal fit, particularly for unusual limb shapes post-surgery or radiation fibrosis; garment compliance of 12+ hours/day is required for maintenance of volume reduction achieved during intensive CDT. Jobst FarrowWrap, Sigvaris compression garments, and Medi lymphedema collections are leading product lines. Night garments — low-pressure, high-volume foam-lined alternatives to day compression — maintain reduction overnight. Both daytime compression garments and night alternatives are available in our orthopedic catalog.
