I have struggled with lymphedema issues since about 14 months post-treatment. You can’t tell by looking at me (unless you look really close). But I can see it and feel it, and it affects my life every day.
I have an arsenal of things I do regularly to keep it under control including:
- prescribed lymphedema pump (I use it nightly for 50 minutes. I even take it when I travel.)
- compression garments
- manual lymphatic massage
- dry brush
- vibration plate
- red light therapy
- anti-inflammatory foods (I’m on again off again with this one because I really like carbs. . .)
Feel free to reach out if you want to talk lymphedema battles with me!
My Thoughts on Juzo, Lymphediva, Mediven and Truform
Juzo – Most comfortable. I can wear this all day and forget I have it on for the most part. The amount of compression feels right, and the sleeve and gauntlet keep their shape for the whole day. Bonus – Juzo comes in a lot of fun styles (like the one pictured above). I figure if I have to wear these dumb things, at least I can look cute. The downside of Juzo (in my experience) is that it’s pricier than other brands.
Lymphediva – I like the fit of the sleeve when I initially put it on, but within a couple hours the upper arm area gets loose, and I find that annoying. I am also not a fan of the gauntlet with this brand. It is very loose around my wrist which ends up leaving the hand and arm compressed and a small wrist area loose. When I do wear a Lymphediva sleeve, I generally wear a Juzo gauntlet with it. Lymphediva comes in a lot of fun styles like Juzo, and the price is lower, but I think the quality is lower as well.
Mediven – This brand is pretty economical, but I find it uncomfortably tight. I never forget I have this on when I’m wearing it. It also comes in just 4 colors and no patterns.
Truform – Definitely the best bang for your buck. I probably prefer Juzo, but I tried this brand on a whim because it was inexpensive, and it has a great fit. It has good compression and stays in place for half the price of the others I’ve tried. Downside is that this brand doesn’t make gauntlets or gloves, but I use my Juzo gauntlet with it.
Kelly at Cancer Rehab PT is a great resource for working to managing Lymphedema. I refer to her videos often.
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Fad or Fantastic?
Vibration plates seem to be all the rage in the world of fitness right now. I can’t speak for the purpose they serve for people who use them in a “normal” workout routine, but my lymphedema specialist recommended I start using one to stimulate my lymph system. I’ve only been using it for a short-time, but I’m hopeful that adding this to my routine will be helpful. Here’s a link to the one I bought: LifePro Waver Mini. Here’s a video about their efficacy for Lymphedema: Do Vibration Plates Work for Lymphatic Drainage?
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Each morning and evening, I do a manual lymph drainage routine followed by a dry brush. There are a lot to pick from, but this is the one I use: MainBasics Dry Brushing Body Brush. Here’s helpful link: Dry Brushing How To.
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I started red light therapy earlier this year and have noticed a slight decrease in my swelling when I use it regularly. There are a lot of purchasing options available, some better than others. I bought the option on the left from tightclub. I use it for 30 minutes about 5 times per week.