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Lymphedema, compression stockings and hot tubs

Forums General Melanoma Community Lymphedema, compression stockings and hot tubs

  • Post
    michaelinsocal
    Participant

      Hello. I am two months removed from a left groin lymph node dissection. I wear a compression stocking every day, elevate my leg when it feels tired and often when the stocking is off at night, will use a wedge to elevate my leg further.

      The lymphedema specialist I am seeing says my leg looks very healthy. It is still early to determine if I have any sign of the beginning stages of Lymphedema. My left leg compared to my right (from my ankles to my upper thigh) are within 3 cm or less of one another.

      For those who had the groin dissection, is the compression stocking a permanent item to be worn 24/7 or has anyone been able to find proper management to where they can go without the stocking or to something a little less conspicuous like a compression sock? I understand there is no reason to wear one while I'm working but I certainly would like to spend my free time without one.

      The second question is this. We've recently purchased a hot tub, mainly to provide relief to our tired muscles and backs. Has anyone with the dissection told specifically NOT to use a hot tub. I've had mixed opinions from medical experts, some say it should be fine, some say avoid it like the plague. Has anyone here used them since their dissection? Experiences?

      thank you

       

    Viewing 20 reply threads
    • Replies
        momof4boys
        Participant
          I had mine done in Aug so a little further out and am having quite a time adjusting. First off I was told never to go in a hot tub by my lymphadema therapist. As for the stalking, my thigh is quite a bit bigger than the calf so it tends to want to cut into the back of my knee. So I tend to dread wearing it so therefore don’t sometimes. I was fitted with a night garment from Solaris. I was having to do the wraps at night which took hubby an hour to do. That just wasn’t feasible. The nightgarment lbooks like a mermaid tail and is snug but not tight. Somehow it works. This is a life long problem and will never go away. You have to be very careful of that leg from here on out. Infection can be a huge problem. My therapist has dealt with people who were just fine and then in the er with an infection in their leg all in a matter of hours. She has also seen people whose skin was seeping because it got so thin. This is definitely a serious matter and you should take very good care of that leg. I would advise something on at night. Have you started seeing a therapist?
          momof4boys
          Participant
            I had mine done in Aug so a little further out and am having quite a time adjusting. First off I was told never to go in a hot tub by my lymphadema therapist. As for the stalking, my thigh is quite a bit bigger than the calf so it tends to want to cut into the back of my knee. So I tend to dread wearing it so therefore don’t sometimes. I was fitted with a night garment from Solaris. I was having to do the wraps at night which took hubby an hour to do. That just wasn’t feasible. The nightgarment lbooks like a mermaid tail and is snug but not tight. Somehow it works. This is a life long problem and will never go away. You have to be very careful of that leg from here on out. Infection can be a huge problem. My therapist has dealt with people who were just fine and then in the er with an infection in their leg all in a matter of hours. She has also seen people whose skin was seeping because it got so thin. This is definitely a serious matter and you should take very good care of that leg. I would advise something on at night. Have you started seeing a therapist?
              momof4boys
              Participant
                Sorry it took so long to think what I was going to say I forgot you said you were seeing someone! Sorry about that!
                momof4boys
                Participant
                  Sorry it took so long to think what I was going to say I forgot you said you were seeing someone! Sorry about that!
                  momof4boys
                  Participant
                    Sorry it took so long to think what I was going to say I forgot you said you were seeing someone! Sorry about that!
                    michaelinsocal
                    Participant

                      Hi, first thank you for sharing your story.

                      I started physical therapy with a therapist who specializes in lymphedema last week. From all the indicators my leg is looking very healthy. But as you stated that can change in a heartbeat.

                      I've attended two sessions do far, most of them have been informational. They've also taken measurements both times and the swelling continues to respond well to compression. 

                      To this point they've discussed the wrapping process and lymphedema massage techniques as future treatments but currently I'm doing well on compression alone. 

                      I've only been told to use any hot tub with moderation and to elevate the leg whenever I can.

                      So much of it is observational at this point but I've had some good information.

                      michaelinsocal
                      Participant

                        Hi, first thank you for sharing your story.

                        I started physical therapy with a therapist who specializes in lymphedema last week. From all the indicators my leg is looking very healthy. But as you stated that can change in a heartbeat.

                        I've attended two sessions do far, most of them have been informational. They've also taken measurements both times and the swelling continues to respond well to compression. 

                        To this point they've discussed the wrapping process and lymphedema massage techniques as future treatments but currently I'm doing well on compression alone. 

                        I've only been told to use any hot tub with moderation and to elevate the leg whenever I can.

                        So much of it is observational at this point but I've had some good information.

                        michaelinsocal
                        Participant

                          Hi, first thank you for sharing your story.

                          I started physical therapy with a therapist who specializes in lymphedema last week. From all the indicators my leg is looking very healthy. But as you stated that can change in a heartbeat.

                          I've attended two sessions do far, most of them have been informational. They've also taken measurements both times and the swelling continues to respond well to compression. 

                          To this point they've discussed the wrapping process and lymphedema massage techniques as future treatments but currently I'm doing well on compression alone. 

                          I've only been told to use any hot tub with moderation and to elevate the leg whenever I can.

                          So much of it is observational at this point but I've had some good information.

                        momof4boys
                        Participant
                          I had mine done in Aug so a little further out and am having quite a time adjusting. First off I was told never to go in a hot tub by my lymphadema therapist. As for the stalking, my thigh is quite a bit bigger than the calf so it tends to want to cut into the back of my knee. So I tend to dread wearing it so therefore don’t sometimes. I was fitted with a night garment from Solaris. I was having to do the wraps at night which took hubby an hour to do. That just wasn’t feasible. The nightgarment lbooks like a mermaid tail and is snug but not tight. Somehow it works. This is a life long problem and will never go away. You have to be very careful of that leg from here on out. Infection can be a huge problem. My therapist has dealt with people who were just fine and then in the er with an infection in their leg all in a matter of hours. She has also seen people whose skin was seeping because it got so thin. This is definitely a serious matter and you should take very good care of that leg. I would advise something on at night. Have you started seeing a therapist?
                          mau
                          Participant

                            I had groin involvement in 2000.  I have had mild lymphedema since. (left leg also)  The things that make it swell are lots of walking  ( like all day hiking)  and hot summer days.  I wear a compression garment when I feel like it may swell or if my leg is feeling heavy or painful.  If I am traveling, I take it.  I wore it much more often the first few years, but found that it really didn't matter much if my leg didn't feel heavy.  I do have a half leg stocking which you can get now over the counter in lower compressions.  I wear that if my ankle is more swollen.  I have a variety of custom made stockings of various compressions but really, for me, I find I need it only a few times a year.  I have stayed away from hot tubs since I know that hot summer days cause more swelling it seems hot water would too.  BUT  as the other response notes it is a lifetime thing you have to be aware of and diligent with.  You need to see your doctor right away if the leg is red and hot, or the swelling severe.  My swelling is consistent – it is always about an inch bigger than the other leg-and I have come to know when to use the garment as preventative to keep it from getting worse.

                            As far as the use of the hot tub, (or other activities for that matter) try it, go slow and stop if your leg seems to be getting worse.  I do know swimming in the ocean helps!

                            wishing you well.

                            mau
                            Participant

                              I had groin involvement in 2000.  I have had mild lymphedema since. (left leg also)  The things that make it swell are lots of walking  ( like all day hiking)  and hot summer days.  I wear a compression garment when I feel like it may swell or if my leg is feeling heavy or painful.  If I am traveling, I take it.  I wore it much more often the first few years, but found that it really didn't matter much if my leg didn't feel heavy.  I do have a half leg stocking which you can get now over the counter in lower compressions.  I wear that if my ankle is more swollen.  I have a variety of custom made stockings of various compressions but really, for me, I find I need it only a few times a year.  I have stayed away from hot tubs since I know that hot summer days cause more swelling it seems hot water would too.  BUT  as the other response notes it is a lifetime thing you have to be aware of and diligent with.  You need to see your doctor right away if the leg is red and hot, or the swelling severe.  My swelling is consistent – it is always about an inch bigger than the other leg-and I have come to know when to use the garment as preventative to keep it from getting worse.

                              As far as the use of the hot tub, (or other activities for that matter) try it, go slow and stop if your leg seems to be getting worse.  I do know swimming in the ocean helps!

                              wishing you well.

                              mau
                              Participant

                                I had groin involvement in 2000.  I have had mild lymphedema since. (left leg also)  The things that make it swell are lots of walking  ( like all day hiking)  and hot summer days.  I wear a compression garment when I feel like it may swell or if my leg is feeling heavy or painful.  If I am traveling, I take it.  I wore it much more often the first few years, but found that it really didn't matter much if my leg didn't feel heavy.  I do have a half leg stocking which you can get now over the counter in lower compressions.  I wear that if my ankle is more swollen.  I have a variety of custom made stockings of various compressions but really, for me, I find I need it only a few times a year.  I have stayed away from hot tubs since I know that hot summer days cause more swelling it seems hot water would too.  BUT  as the other response notes it is a lifetime thing you have to be aware of and diligent with.  You need to see your doctor right away if the leg is red and hot, or the swelling severe.  My swelling is consistent – it is always about an inch bigger than the other leg-and I have come to know when to use the garment as preventative to keep it from getting worse.

                                As far as the use of the hot tub, (or other activities for that matter) try it, go slow and stop if your leg seems to be getting worse.  I do know swimming in the ocean helps!

                                wishing you well.

                                Thandster
                                Participant

                                  I will start by saying lymphedema can be VERY different from person to person so you will have to learn how your body handles it,but i can tell you my experience.

                                  I had a bilateral groin dissection in December of 2012. As a result, I have lymphedema in both legs. I wear my elvarex stockings all the time unless I'm home with my feet up. At this point I don't foresee a day when I won't have to wear them. I dont wear anything at night, but ALWAYS have my feet elevated. Running has been the most helpful exercise, but i gained so much weight after the surgery from laying around for so long and taking it easy as i tried to get back to a regular life, that It has been a slow road getting back to it like i did before my diagnosis and surgeries. A hot tub for me would be TOTALLY out of the question. ive seen a fair amount of swelling from being in a pool that is too warm. i will likely never get into a hot tub or bath again. ( dont worry, i do shower;)

                                  I've been able to keep the lymphedema manageable this way. Im not going to lie, I HATE THE GARMENT! it can be so frustrating to deal with, but I work, run, play with my son play for our church softball team, golf, hike, hunt, fish, etc. Basically, I try to continue to do the things I love to do. 

                                  And just my opinion, the elvarex custom made garments are the only way to go. Everything else was useless and unworkable for me and I tried a lot of them. 

                                  Good luck!

                                  Thandster

                                  Thandster
                                  Participant

                                    I will start by saying lymphedema can be VERY different from person to person so you will have to learn how your body handles it,but i can tell you my experience.

                                    I had a bilateral groin dissection in December of 2012. As a result, I have lymphedema in both legs. I wear my elvarex stockings all the time unless I'm home with my feet up. At this point I don't foresee a day when I won't have to wear them. I dont wear anything at night, but ALWAYS have my feet elevated. Running has been the most helpful exercise, but i gained so much weight after the surgery from laying around for so long and taking it easy as i tried to get back to a regular life, that It has been a slow road getting back to it like i did before my diagnosis and surgeries. A hot tub for me would be TOTALLY out of the question. ive seen a fair amount of swelling from being in a pool that is too warm. i will likely never get into a hot tub or bath again. ( dont worry, i do shower;)

                                    I've been able to keep the lymphedema manageable this way. Im not going to lie, I HATE THE GARMENT! it can be so frustrating to deal with, but I work, run, play with my son play for our church softball team, golf, hike, hunt, fish, etc. Basically, I try to continue to do the things I love to do. 

                                    And just my opinion, the elvarex custom made garments are the only way to go. Everything else was useless and unworkable for me and I tried a lot of them. 

                                    Good luck!

                                    Thandster

                                      michaelinsocal
                                      Participant

                                        Thank you Thandster. I'm glad to hear the quality of life isgood

                                        michaelinsocal
                                        Participant

                                          Thank you Thandster. I'm glad to hear the quality of life isgood

                                          michaelinsocal
                                          Participant

                                            Thank you Thandster. I'm glad to hear the quality of life isgood

                                          Thandster
                                          Participant

                                            I will start by saying lymphedema can be VERY different from person to person so you will have to learn how your body handles it,but i can tell you my experience.

                                            I had a bilateral groin dissection in December of 2012. As a result, I have lymphedema in both legs. I wear my elvarex stockings all the time unless I'm home with my feet up. At this point I don't foresee a day when I won't have to wear them. I dont wear anything at night, but ALWAYS have my feet elevated. Running has been the most helpful exercise, but i gained so much weight after the surgery from laying around for so long and taking it easy as i tried to get back to a regular life, that It has been a slow road getting back to it like i did before my diagnosis and surgeries. A hot tub for me would be TOTALLY out of the question. ive seen a fair amount of swelling from being in a pool that is too warm. i will likely never get into a hot tub or bath again. ( dont worry, i do shower;)

                                            I've been able to keep the lymphedema manageable this way. Im not going to lie, I HATE THE GARMENT! it can be so frustrating to deal with, but I work, run, play with my son play for our church softball team, golf, hike, hunt, fish, etc. Basically, I try to continue to do the things I love to do. 

                                            And just my opinion, the elvarex custom made garments are the only way to go. Everything else was useless and unworkable for me and I tried a lot of them. 

                                            Good luck!

                                            Thandster

                                            Aussielyn
                                            Participant

                                              Hi ! I had my op nearly 3 years ago ( will be in September) & have no lymphedema – The only time I wear a compression stocking now is when I'm flying for  over a few hours. I have found exercise , swimming & keeping weight down have been my reason for success. I also had regular lymphatic drainage by a physiotherapist & then by a trained remedial massage therapist. I've avoided hot baths, spas & thermal pools . In the first 6 months after my op I wore a compression stocking that just came to the top of my leg & it was made with cotton  – much cooler & more comfortable for our climate. Good luck with it all.

                                               Lyn 

                                              Aussielyn
                                              Participant

                                                Hi ! I had my op nearly 3 years ago ( will be in September) & have no lymphedema – The only time I wear a compression stocking now is when I'm flying for  over a few hours. I have found exercise , swimming & keeping weight down have been my reason for success. I also had regular lymphatic drainage by a physiotherapist & then by a trained remedial massage therapist. I've avoided hot baths, spas & thermal pools . In the first 6 months after my op I wore a compression stocking that just came to the top of my leg & it was made with cotton  – much cooler & more comfortable for our climate. Good luck with it all.

                                                 Lyn 

                                                  michaelinsocal
                                                  Participant

                                                    Thanks Lyn for sharing. I haven't heard about lymphatic drainage, was this something your Dr prescribed or you found on your own? What is invoked. Does medical insurance normally cover it? I'd be very interested to learn more.

                                                    michaelinsocal
                                                    Participant

                                                      Thanks Lyn for sharing. I haven't heard about lymphatic drainage, was this something your Dr prescribed or you found on your own? What is invoked. Does medical insurance normally cover it? I'd be very interested to learn more.

                                                      Aussielyn
                                                      Participant

                                                        It's a form of massage whereby the therapist systematically stimulates lymph nodes throughout the body & then manually strokes the skin & fluid away  to drainage areas where there are more lymph nodes. I was given my own instructions & with my husband's help( he did the back area)  we did it religiously at home as well for the first 6 months. I also had exercises to do in the pool – I found swimming so good in the early stages of my recovery ( once wound had healed of course) . My treatment by the physio was done free of charge in the cancer ward of the local hospital. That lasted 6 weeks.  I have an excellent remedial massage therapist ,also a registered nurse, trained in lymphatic drainage  & she charges $70 an hour – my health fund rebate is $32 . Leg measurements were always less after treatment. Hope you find a therapist who does this work – it's quite common here in Australia . Good luck! 

                                                        Lyn

                                                        Aussielyn
                                                        Participant

                                                          It's a form of massage whereby the therapist systematically stimulates lymph nodes throughout the body & then manually strokes the skin & fluid away  to drainage areas where there are more lymph nodes. I was given my own instructions & with my husband's help( he did the back area)  we did it religiously at home as well for the first 6 months. I also had exercises to do in the pool – I found swimming so good in the early stages of my recovery ( once wound had healed of course) . My treatment by the physio was done free of charge in the cancer ward of the local hospital. That lasted 6 weeks.  I have an excellent remedial massage therapist ,also a registered nurse, trained in lymphatic drainage  & she charges $70 an hour – my health fund rebate is $32 . Leg measurements were always less after treatment. Hope you find a therapist who does this work – it's quite common here in Australia . Good luck! 

                                                          Lyn

                                                          Aussielyn
                                                          Participant

                                                            It's a form of massage whereby the therapist systematically stimulates lymph nodes throughout the body & then manually strokes the skin & fluid away  to drainage areas where there are more lymph nodes. I was given my own instructions & with my husband's help( he did the back area)  we did it religiously at home as well for the first 6 months. I also had exercises to do in the pool – I found swimming so good in the early stages of my recovery ( once wound had healed of course) . My treatment by the physio was done free of charge in the cancer ward of the local hospital. That lasted 6 weeks.  I have an excellent remedial massage therapist ,also a registered nurse, trained in lymphatic drainage  & she charges $70 an hour – my health fund rebate is $32 . Leg measurements were always less after treatment. Hope you find a therapist who does this work – it's quite common here in Australia . Good luck! 

                                                            Lyn

                                                            michaelinsocal
                                                            Participant

                                                              Thanks Lyn for sharing. I haven't heard about lymphatic drainage, was this something your Dr prescribed or you found on your own? What is invoked. Does medical insurance normally cover it? I'd be very interested to learn more.

                                                            Aussielyn
                                                            Participant

                                                              Hi ! I had my op nearly 3 years ago ( will be in September) & have no lymphedema – The only time I wear a compression stocking now is when I'm flying for  over a few hours. I have found exercise , swimming & keeping weight down have been my reason for success. I also had regular lymphatic drainage by a physiotherapist & then by a trained remedial massage therapist. I've avoided hot baths, spas & thermal pools . In the first 6 months after my op I wore a compression stocking that just came to the top of my leg & it was made with cotton  – much cooler & more comfortable for our climate. Good luck with it all.

                                                               Lyn 

                                                              Linny
                                                              Participant

                                                                Believe it or not, breast cancer web sites have some great informtion about lymphedema. Even though they don't deal so much with leg lymphedema, you'll find a lot of commonality and good information there. Here are two:

                                                                http://lymphedivas.tumblr.com/post/78126917054/lymphedema-resources

                                                                http://denise4health.wordpress.com/2014/03/25/lymphedema-awareness-and-breast-cancer/

                                                                Here are two good web sites for lymphedema in general and cover more than just arm lymphedema:

                                                                http://www.lymphnet.org/

                                                                http://www.stepup-speakout.org/

                                                                 

                                                                Linny
                                                                Participant

                                                                  Believe it or not, breast cancer web sites have some great informtion about lymphedema. Even though they don't deal so much with leg lymphedema, you'll find a lot of commonality and good information there. Here are two:

                                                                  http://lymphedivas.tumblr.com/post/78126917054/lymphedema-resources

                                                                  http://denise4health.wordpress.com/2014/03/25/lymphedema-awareness-and-breast-cancer/

                                                                  Here are two good web sites for lymphedema in general and cover more than just arm lymphedema:

                                                                  http://www.lymphnet.org/

                                                                  http://www.stepup-speakout.org/

                                                                   

                                                                  Linny
                                                                  Participant

                                                                    Believe it or not, breast cancer web sites have some great informtion about lymphedema. Even though they don't deal so much with leg lymphedema, you'll find a lot of commonality and good information there. Here are two:

                                                                    http://lymphedivas.tumblr.com/post/78126917054/lymphedema-resources

                                                                    http://denise4health.wordpress.com/2014/03/25/lymphedema-awareness-and-breast-cancer/

                                                                    Here are two good web sites for lymphedema in general and cover more than just arm lymphedema:

                                                                    http://www.lymphnet.org/

                                                                    http://www.stepup-speakout.org/

                                                                     

                                                                    Tina D
                                                                    Participant

                                                                      As one mentioned above, each person is different. I had my surgery back in 2009. I wore Jobst compression pantyhose just because I wanted to avoid problems, not because my surgeon suggested it. I saw a therapist right after surgery who offered little advice, since she mostly had experience with arm lymphedema. I had no problems for a few years, then just  started having swelling. I saw a therapist who specialized in lymph drainage. We did special wraps to reduce as much as possible for abt a month, then I was fitted for the custom compression garment. I wear it always when I am up, if I dont, my leg is uncomfortable and starts to swell. I am not overweight, and I have always been able to stay relatively active … sometimes there is no rhyme or reason. The important thing is to stay on top of it because if it swells and is not controlled it can become a big problem relatively quick. I am mostly used to the garment since I have been using it for a few years, but it is not my favorite thing in the summer. I have yet to figure out a good way to be able to go to the water park with the family this summer, since having it sopping wet is not a good option, either. Wish they made one specificaly for that purpose.

                                                                      Sounds like you are doing great and being diligent. My therapist told me that for some they do not need the garment all the time.

                                                                      Tina

                                                                      Tina D
                                                                      Participant

                                                                        As one mentioned above, each person is different. I had my surgery back in 2009. I wore Jobst compression pantyhose just because I wanted to avoid problems, not because my surgeon suggested it. I saw a therapist right after surgery who offered little advice, since she mostly had experience with arm lymphedema. I had no problems for a few years, then just  started having swelling. I saw a therapist who specialized in lymph drainage. We did special wraps to reduce as much as possible for abt a month, then I was fitted for the custom compression garment. I wear it always when I am up, if I dont, my leg is uncomfortable and starts to swell. I am not overweight, and I have always been able to stay relatively active … sometimes there is no rhyme or reason. The important thing is to stay on top of it because if it swells and is not controlled it can become a big problem relatively quick. I am mostly used to the garment since I have been using it for a few years, but it is not my favorite thing in the summer. I have yet to figure out a good way to be able to go to the water park with the family this summer, since having it sopping wet is not a good option, either. Wish they made one specificaly for that purpose.

                                                                        Sounds like you are doing great and being diligent. My therapist told me that for some they do not need the garment all the time.

                                                                        Tina

                                                                          melanomafighter
                                                                          Participant
                                                                            Hello…as all of you have said…everyone is different..I wore my compression for about six months after left leg disection of 28 nodes…I didnt go in ANY hot tubs was told by Drs never cut or have needle or hot water…my thigh area is partially numb from surgery…I have in the last 6 months after over four years swelling..I am back on the compression and after going to therapy to “get all my other nodes active” have the fluid moved from my leg into the other nodes…I only have three in my left knee and I believe you have ten on each side of grion called superficial that ALL mine were taken in surgery…I have been extremely lucky and yes you must wear it when you fly…I just got a machine made by textile company that does what the therapist waa doing…it takes and hour and works my abdomen nodes then gets all the fluid out of my left leg…hope this helps..I still work..walk..ride bikes everything anyone else does just with it on..I just recently spent7 days in the bahamas…didnt wear it due to climate until evening but Dr said the ocean and pool is best compression I could get…hot water though I dont think is good…
                                                                            melanomafighter
                                                                            Participant
                                                                              Hello…as all of you have said…everyone is different..I wore my compression for about six months after left leg disection of 28 nodes…I didnt go in ANY hot tubs was told by Drs never cut or have needle or hot water…my thigh area is partially numb from surgery…I have in the last 6 months after over four years swelling..I am back on the compression and after going to therapy to “get all my other nodes active” have the fluid moved from my leg into the other nodes…I only have three in my left knee and I believe you have ten on each side of grion called superficial that ALL mine were taken in surgery…I have been extremely lucky and yes you must wear it when you fly…I just got a machine made by textile company that does what the therapist waa doing…it takes and hour and works my abdomen nodes then gets all the fluid out of my left leg…hope this helps..I still work..walk..ride bikes everything anyone else does just with it on..I just recently spent7 days in the bahamas…didnt wear it due to climate until evening but Dr said the ocean and pool is best compression I could get…hot water though I dont think is good…
                                                                              melanomafighter
                                                                              Participant
                                                                                Hello…as all of you have said…everyone is different..I wore my compression for about six months after left leg disection of 28 nodes…I didnt go in ANY hot tubs was told by Drs never cut or have needle or hot water…my thigh area is partially numb from surgery…I have in the last 6 months after over four years swelling..I am back on the compression and after going to therapy to “get all my other nodes active” have the fluid moved from my leg into the other nodes…I only have three in my left knee and I believe you have ten on each side of grion called superficial that ALL mine were taken in surgery…I have been extremely lucky and yes you must wear it when you fly…I just got a machine made by textile company that does what the therapist waa doing…it takes and hour and works my abdomen nodes then gets all the fluid out of my left leg…hope this helps..I still work..walk..ride bikes everything anyone else does just with it on..I just recently spent7 days in the bahamas…didnt wear it due to climate until evening but Dr said the ocean and pool is best compression I could get…hot water though I dont think is good…
                                                                              Tina D
                                                                              Participant

                                                                                As one mentioned above, each person is different. I had my surgery back in 2009. I wore Jobst compression pantyhose just because I wanted to avoid problems, not because my surgeon suggested it. I saw a therapist right after surgery who offered little advice, since she mostly had experience with arm lymphedema. I had no problems for a few years, then just  started having swelling. I saw a therapist who specialized in lymph drainage. We did special wraps to reduce as much as possible for abt a month, then I was fitted for the custom compression garment. I wear it always when I am up, if I dont, my leg is uncomfortable and starts to swell. I am not overweight, and I have always been able to stay relatively active … sometimes there is no rhyme or reason. The important thing is to stay on top of it because if it swells and is not controlled it can become a big problem relatively quick. I am mostly used to the garment since I have been using it for a few years, but it is not my favorite thing in the summer. I have yet to figure out a good way to be able to go to the water park with the family this summer, since having it sopping wet is not a good option, either. Wish they made one specificaly for that purpose.

                                                                                Sounds like you are doing great and being diligent. My therapist told me that for some they do not need the garment all the time.

                                                                                Tina

                                                                                chiagen
                                                                                Participant

                                                                                  Hi,
                                                                                  I don't know exactly about this dessection. But if you are really feeling something you can consult your  doctor about this. And second thing you have purchased the hot tub.So this is also useful for our body .As to remove all pains from our muscles and back. You can add some more spa chemicals in your hot tub so as to  get more relief to your body. But before that you must consult to your doctor.

                                                                                  chiagen
                                                                                  Participant

                                                                                    Hi,
                                                                                    I don't know exactly about this dessection. But if you are really feeling something you can consult your  doctor about this. And second thing you have purchased the hot tub.So this is also useful for our body .As to remove all pains from our muscles and back. You can add some more spa chemicals in your hot tub so as to  get more relief to your body. But before that you must consult to your doctor.

                                                                                    chiagen
                                                                                    Participant

                                                                                      Hi,
                                                                                      I don't know exactly about this dessection. But if you are really feeling something you can consult your  doctor about this. And second thing you have purchased the hot tub.So this is also useful for our body .As to remove all pains from our muscles and back. You can add some more spa chemicals in your hot tub so as to  get more relief to your body. But before that you must consult to your doctor.

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