What to expect from lymphoedema therapy for breast cancer

Lymphoedema therapy supports fluid movement when lymphatic drainage has been affected by breast cancer treatment. A therapist examines swelling, skin condition, comfort, shoulder movement and how the change affects daily tasks. Treatment may combine compression garments or bandaging, gentle exercises, breathing techniques, skin care and manual lymphatic drainage. The plan changes as the swelling and your ability to manage it change.

Therapy manages symptoms and protects function; it does not replace cancer treatment. A properly fitted garment should feel supportive rather than painfully tight, and the therapist will show you how to use it.

Attend assessment with a list of symptoms, previous surgery or radiotherapy and activities that feel difficult. Practise the movements at the pace taught, moisturise intact skin and check for cuts, cracks or irritation. Wear compression only as instructed and keep it clean. Avoid suddenly overloading the arm; build activity gradually and pause if pain or swelling increases. Record changes so the therapist can adjust the plan.

Contact your clinician promptly if the arm, breast or chest becomes suddenly more swollen, hot, red or painful, especially with fever or feeling unwell. Seek advice for numbness, colour change, skin breakdown or a garment that causes pain. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether the swelling has been assessed as lymphoedema, which therapy components suit you, who will fit compression, how to exercise safely, how to protect your skin and which changes should be reported quickly.