Lymphatic Wraps: What Are They and How Do They Work?
If you’ve ever experienced swelling, heaviness or fluid retention in your arms or legs, you may have heard of lymphatic wraps. These specialized wraps are used as part of certain approaches to managing swelling and supporting the movement of lymph fluid.
For some people post-breast cancer treatment, lymphatic swelling can occur, particularly when lymph nodes have been removed or affected during treatment. Lymphatic wraps may be one component of a treatment plan for managing this type of swelling, when recommended by a healthcare professional.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is an important part of your body’s immune and fluid-management systems. It helps collect excess fluid from tissues and transports it through a network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes.
When lymph fluid doesn’t move effectively, fluid can build up in the tissues, resulting in swelling. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including surgery, injury, certain medical conditions, or changes to the lymphatic system following cancer treatment.
What are lymphatic wraps?
Lymphatic wraps are compression-based wraps that are applied to an affected area of the body. The gentle, graduated pressure can help support the movement of fluid and may be recommended as part of a treatment plan for certain types of swelling.
Depending on the individual and their needs, wraps may be used on areas such as the arms or legs.
Why might someone use them?
Lymphatic wraps may be recommended for people experiencing conditions involving swelling or lymphatic fluid buildup. They may be particularly relevant for some individual’s post-breast cancer treatment who experience lymphatic swelling in the arm or surrounding areas.
They can be one component of a broader approach that may also include exercise, skin care, movement, and other therapies recommended by a healthcare professional.
The right type of wrap, pressure and application method depends on the individual.
Getting the right guidance matters
Compression and lymphatic products aren’t one-size-fits-all. Proper fitting and application are important, particularly if you have an underlying medical condition or have recently had surgery.
If you’re considering lymphatic wraps, speak with your healthcare provider or a qualified practitioner about whether they’re appropriate for you.
Pratt’s Pharmacy is here to help.
Our team can help you learn more about products and options that may be available to support your individual needs. Talk to our pharmacy team to determine what may be appropriate for you and when a referral to another healthcare professional may be recommended.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace advice from your physician, pharmacist or other qualified healthcare professional.