Lymphedema and Exercise FAQs

Is it safe to exercise with lymphedema? Won't I swell more if I exercise?

Yes, exercise is safe with lymphedema as long as you pay attention to a few basic principles. If you have lymphedema you should exercise wearing your compression bandages or your compression garments.

Will exercise make my lymphedema worse?

No. Research has shown us that in people with breast cancer related lymphedema, exercise is safe. In fact, people who participated in a supervised, slowly progressive weight lifting program had a 50% reduction in the likelihood of lymphedema flares during the time of the study.

Why should I wear compression when I exercise?

The compression garments, or bandages, increase the efficiency of the muscle pumps in moving the fluid from your limb(s), trunk, or face. Without the compression, the increased circulation and increased production of lymph fluid will collect in the areas that are lymphedematous, or swollen.

How do I begin to exercise?

First, get clearance from your healthcare provider that it is okay to begin exercising.

Then begin slowly with no weight, doing active range of motion exercises.

Your exercise should be:

• Low intensity.
• Pain free.
• Within the guidelines for any surgical procedures you may have had.
• Done while wearing compression bandages or garments.
• Fun.

What kind of exercises should I do?

Your exercise program should include the following:

• Stretching – to increase the range of motion at joints that are tight.
• Strengthening – to improve muscle performance and strength.
• Endurance – to improve the efficiency of the heart, lungs, and muscles.

How can I start my own exercise program?

• Target heart rate for cardio/aerobic, endurance building exercise. 
  • Aerobic exercise is any exercise that you do for a continuous period of time at your target heart rate, with the goal of attaining 25 – 30 minutes of exercise. Start slowly and gradually build up the amount of time you are exercising until you reach 25 – 30 minutes. You should be able to complete the exercise without being short of breath, overly fatigued, or sore.
  •  Examples include:  walking outside or on a treadmill, riding a bicycle or a stationary bicycle, jogging, swimming or walking laps in the pool with water above waist height, going up and down a flight of stairs, exercising on a stepper or an elliptical machine.
• Plan to exercise when it works best for you. 
• Be consistent and remember to plan for rest and recovery days. Finding an exercise buddy can help you both show up for your work-outs.
• Mix up your exercise routine. For example, try strength and flexibility training every other day. Do cardio/aerobic exercise on the days you don't do strength and flexibility. Incorporate deep breathing, meditation and posture/yoga and stretching into your exercise.

What should I expect to feel once I start exercising?

Start with small amounts and build gradually. You may feel some muscle soreness that should go away after a few days as your body gets used to the new activity. Pay attention to what your body is telling you and do not push yourself to the point of over fatigue. 

Your health care provider, lymphedema therapist or a trainer can help you start an exercise program that is appropriate for your level of conditioning. The important thing to remember is that you need to start out with low levels of exercise and gradually increase the intensity and length of time of your exercise as you get stronger and more conditioned. If you notice increased, persistent swelling after exercise, you may have done too much. 

Do you need more information or help starting an exercise program?

Some people prefer to start an exercise program under the guidance of a physical therapist or exercise professional. If you have any concerns about starting an exercise program on your own, talk to your health care provider about a referral to a physical therapist or work with a qualified exercise professional.

Are there special therapists or exercise professionals who work with people with lymphedema?

Physical Therapists with specialized training as Certified Lymphedema Therapists are the best people to work with you. Some facilities have specific programs designed to address the needs of people with lymphedema.

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