Conservative Treatment of Lymphoedema of the Limbs

TLDR

Lymphoedema management varies widely, from aggressive diagnostics that may worsen the disease to radical surgery, with many conservative approaches conflicting with lymphatic anatomy and risking severe complications if left untreated. This paper demonstrates that complex physiotherapy can successfully treat lymphoedema without side effects.

Abstract

Management of Lymphoedema is extremely variable in the medical profes sion, ranging from aggressive diagnostic procedures, which may aggravate the disease (lymphography by oily contrast mediums) in combination with thera peutic nihilism to precipitous operations. Scattered between these two con traversial extreme positions are quite a number of various conservative methods - some of which being in conflict with the anatomy and physiology of the lymph vascular system and the pathology of Lymphoedema. Lymphoedema, if left untreated, or is treated inadequately, may lead to in- validity and to death if Stewart - Treves Syndrome develops. Unnecessary sur gery may have disastrous consequences. The paper describes how Lymphoedema can be treated with success, free of any side effects, by complex physiotherapy.