Lymphoma and Lymphedema
We are still learning how best to medically assess lymph node status, but we encourage women who must undergo lymph node biopsy to seek information on the appropriateness of both sentinel node biopsy and the standard node removal procedure, as sentinel node biopsy leads to less post surgical pain, numbness, and lymphedema. At this stage, however, sentinel node biopsy techniques do not always provide as accurate an assessment of the presence of cancer cells in other nodes.
About ten years ago women survivors of breast cancer in America compelled the medical profession to explore treatments for lymphedema and the result was that the Vodder Method was brought here from Europe. Today many of the more populated areas of the country are served by lymphedema treatment centers, and increasingly more massage therapists and body workers are trained in treating lymphedema.
Whatever its cause and the treatment you seek, always remember that breathing deeply and moving your body will minimize lymphedema by helping your lymphatic system do its job more effectively.
For more information on lymphedema and finding lymphedema treatment and therapists, visit the following websites: