Lymphedema Lower Extremity self MLD & Home program

Nitocris

Good morning all,

 The Michigan State University just added 3 videos for Lower extremity self MLD (or SLD)  These are self-help videos that show one way self -massage can be done.  As we all have different upper and lower extremities LE issues, it is better to consult your therapist to discuss the best way SLD and exercises can be tailored to your own needs.

Lymphedema Upper Body and Torso self-massage (3:55mn)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgmmIfU3sWU 
Lymphedema upper leg self-massage (5:54mn)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vLN1WRg_Eo&feature=em-uploademail-new  
Lymphedema lower leg and ankle self massage (7:48mn)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Y2ert_Bd8k -  I have some questions for our experts. The videos show a drainage sequence toward a healthy axilla on the affected side.   How do you modify when you had SNB or ALND and what do you do when you have arm lymphedema? Second point, as we always work proximal to distal and back to proximal, once the lower leg/ankle sequence is done, I would think that video No 2 for upper leg and video No.1 for upper body would need to be repeated? It is not said, but it would seem logical. Yes? MSU also posted an exercise video for the lower extremities.  It is a short video, so you might like to do it to complement the SLD, before, after or both.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYG7ccjfzDg&feature=relmfu For a longer program, here are two documents with illustrated instructions for exercises for lymphedema of the legs:
 https://patienteducation.osumc.edu/Documents/lymph-exercises-lower.pdf - from Ohio State University  http://www.hamiltonhealthsciences.ca/documents/Patient Education/LymphedemaLowerBodyWomenJCC-th.pdf- from  Juravinski Cancer Centre  What do our experts think about these?  A little bit of "Me time" this week-end to watch, read and try these resources.  I definitely need to work on the strokes.... slow and gentle as Binney would say. Have a good week-end