Post-cancer surgery (lymph node removal) leg swelling / cycling compression gear?

[54ny77]

A close relative recently went through surgery that included removal of lymph nodes in the lower areas, Has caused one leg to swell considerably (relatively speaking).

Since many cyclists are up to speed on the latest compression/recovery stuff, I thought I'd reach out to the collective wisdom and see what's new (as I literally know nothing about it).

We got a pair of compression socks from a medical supply place, but that's it so far.

Thanks for any suggestions.

[beeatnik]

My mom had a tumor resected in her right leg nearly 20 years ago. After radiation treatment, she began to suffer from severe lymphedema. I don't think the treatment modalities have advanced much in 20 years. Essentially, massage from a trained occupational therapist and custom compression stockings are the best way to manage the swelling. Besides severe swelling, cellulitis and osteomyelitis are serious complications which can arise from the excess fluid in the leg. PM me if you'd like more info. It's been my family's experience that most providers are not equipped or even interested in properly managing lymphedema. I say this after watching my mom's right leg swell to 26 inches at the knee and yearly ICU admissions for cellulitis.

[54ny77]

Sending you a PM.....thanks.

My mom had a tumor resected in her right leg nearly 20 years ago. After radiation treatment, she began to suffer from severe lymphedema. I don't think the treatment modalities have advanced much in 20 years. Essentially, massage from a trained occupational therapist and custom compression stockings are the best way to manage the swelling. Besides severe swelling, cellulitis and osteomyelitis are serious complications which can arise from the excess fluid in the leg. PM me if you'd like more info. It's been my family's experience that most providers are not equipped or even interested in properly managing lymphedema. I say this after watching my mom's right leg swell to 26 inches at the knee and yearly ICU admissions for cellulitis.

[CNY rider]

Your relative needs to see a lymphedema specialist ASAP.
The sooner the problem is professionally addressed the better the chances of a happy outcome.
There will be plenty that you can do to help but they need a professional to get things started and lay out the treatment plan.

[jerome]

I can give advice but I have a deep though for your relative
hope things will be fine and he or she will recover

life is bounty we forget it too often.

best

[54ny77]

thanks, things are good, the chemo & radiation and surgeries earlier this year were successful. she was recently deemed cancer-free, and we hope it stays that way. it's been a long journey.

the moderately swelling leg is a side effect. not a great one, but considering the alternatives, it's a tradeoff worth taking any day.

yes, celebrate & enjoy life while you can. :beer: