Trepidation about wrapping

Linda2119

Hi,

I am experience a recent flare up of my stage 1 lymphedema. My PT is now classifying it as stage 2 - I find that incredibly scary.

She is recommending two weeks of wrapping to get the lymph buildup drained. I'm pretty active, so I'm sitting here thinking of all the things I won't be able to do for two weeks. I play the bassoon, so I expect I'll have to miss two weeks of orchestra rehearsal. Piano is a maybe - depends on how she binds my fingers. Definitely won't be playing golf or lifting weights. Maybe I can do legs? Still walk on the treadmill?

I'd love to hear about your experiences as well as reassurance that wrapping works!

Thanks,

Linda

LaurenInPHX

You might still be able to lift weights depending on what the therapist says. Make sure they wrap it so where you can bend your elbow comfortably. It’s annoying but two weeks isnt too bad. Good luck to you.

vlnrph

I’m a violinist whose bow arm would be incapacitated by wrapping but maybe as a player of the ‘burping bedpost’ you could get by, especially if you could bend at the elbow. I’d imagine the most awkward part might actually be assembling the instrument and taking it apart. Would your fellow “clown of the orchestra” be able to help?

Linda2119

I have never heard burping bedpost! Thanks for the laugh!

I'll have to wait and see how flexible my elbow and wrist is. Cocking my wrist will probably be more the issue.

Thanks for both your responses. Lauren - my PT is supportive of lifting weights, so I will certainly trust her guidance.

nagshead

My PT recommended a compression sleeve which I wear while exercising.... my arm had gotten larger and is now back to regular size. the compression sleeve is fairly comfortable.