Lymphoedema after orthopaedic surgery: 7 preventive tips

Preventing lymphoedema after orthopaedic surgery  is pivotal for patients who have undergone procedures in their knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, etc; and where due to the procedure the lymphatic system has been affected. While not all cases of lymphoedema can be avoided, adopting practical strategies (preventive tips) can significantly reduce risks and help you maintain your quality of life. Let’s see how…

What causes post-Orthopaedic surgery Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema occurs when lymph fluid builds up in tissues, causing swelling; most seen in limbs (arms or legs). Post-orthopaedic surgery lymphoedema is caused by damage or disruption on the lymphatic vessels or nodes near the treated area. For that reason, early intervention and proactive management are crucial for minimising risk and severity of symptoms.

Lymphoedema after orthopaedic surgery: 7 preventive tips

1.Early movement and post-op care

• Start gradually to reintroduce movement of the affected limb. Gentle movement helps stimulate lymphatic flow and prevents stiffness.
• Follow the instructions of your physio and lymphoedema therapists.
• At the beginning, practice low-impact exercises tailored to your condition for example yoga, swimming, walking, etc.

Exercise is important, but be careful not to overdo it, as excessive activity could increase swelling (edema). Focus on controlled, low-impact movements and monitor how your body responds. If you notice increased swelling or discomfort, ease back and allow time to recover.

2.Elevate the affected limb

• When you raise the affected limb (legs or arms) above the level of the heart it helps to reduce swelling by encouraging lymphatic fluid and blood to move back toward the center of the body. This is especially helpful after long periods of sitting or standing.
• Supportive Devices for elevation. using a recliner or a pile of pillows to keep the limb comfortably elevated, especially during rest or sleep.

3.Compression Garments

• Wearing a compression sleeve, glove, stocking, or other garment applies gentle pressure to the limb, supporting lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling. These should be worn as recommended by your surgeon and lymphoedema therapist. Start wearing it during the day and remove it at night, then, continue as instructed by your GP and therapist.
• The compression garments should be put on in the morning when swelling is minimal.
• Ensure your garment covers and fits all swollen or treated areas.

4.Take care of your skin to prevent infections

• Keep your skin clean and moisturised.
• Too dry or cracked skin is more prone to infection.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Avoid too high temperatures in water while showering.
• Avoid injury. Use protective clothes or devices in your daily activities (cook, gardening, etc.) to prevent burns or cuts.
• In case of injury, treat it as soon as possible.
• Clean and care for any cuts, scrapes, or insect bites immediately to prevent infection.

5.Avoid tight clothing and jewelry

• In case of inflammation, tight clothes and jewelry obstructs proper lymphatic and blood circulation.
• Choose comfortable and nonrestrictive (loose) clothes.

6.Nutrition

• Take care of what you eat, proper nutrition is pivotal in order to reduce inflammation and avoid it.
• Introduce anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leaf green, nuts, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, etc.
• Opt for an anti-inflammatory diet like Mediterranean or keto (always supervised by a nutritionist).

7.Maintain a healthy weight

• Excess weight puts additional strain on your lymphatic system and increases your risk of lymphoedema
• Exercise frequently.
• Monitor your BMI (Body Mass Index). A body mass index (BMI) over 30 is associated with a higher risk of lymphoedema. 

Lymphoedema after orthopaedic surgery: symptoms

Be aware of early signs of lymphoedema, such as:

• Abnormal swelling after the procedure
• Heaviness, pain, or tension in the limb
• Tightness or a “bursting” feeling
• Clothing, shoes, or jewelry feeling tighter

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon and lymphoedema therapist promptly for assessment and early intervention.

A final word…

Preventing lymphoedema after orthopaedic surgery is possible with proper strategies and proactive care. The listed tips above which include gentle movement, limb elevation, compression therapy, skin care, proper nutrition, weight management, and awareness of early symptoms are pivotal to reduce post-op lymphoedema risks, in addition to support and speed up your recovery process. Always consult your healthcare team for a tailored treatment plan.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26753640/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8620266/

https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/cancer/lymphoedema

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537239/

https://www.lympho.org/uploads/files/files/Surgery-final.pdf