Can LE "go away?"

Oh karody we ALL LOVE TO HEAR STORIES LIKE YOURS!!!! How encouraging. I guess its possible that something can set it off again, as we all also know the golden rule.... any nodes out and youre at risk for the rest of your life. It is that simple. That said, you know your body and capabilities. You seem to be doing very well, and with the right precautions and as long as youre vigilant against the well known caveats theres no reason for LE to affect your life too much.



All the best.

Karody, catching it early and getting good treatment right away can make lymphedema much easier to manage. There are several women here who use their garments only for exercise, travel, and any unusual activities, and they do just fine.

Since the cause of the lymphedema remains, so does the risk that it will be triggered again at some time in the future. If so, act promptly and hopefully you'll have the same great results!

A couple of thoughts: Lymphedema can worsen and yet be difficult or impossible to detect, so an annual thorough re-measurement by your therapist can help head off creeping progression. S/he should be recording volumes from arm measurements, so will be able to compare on an on-going basis. S/he can also detect by examination any of the fibrotic changes that are typical of lymphedema progression, and put you on a more rigorous treatment plan to get things back in control.

Practicing the massage, even if you're not using it regularly, will make it possible for you to remember how to do it effectively when a flare-up occurs--much better than struggling to re-learn when you're dealing with an already frustrating situation.

The node clearing in neck, shoulder, axilla and groin that you were taught as the first (and likely the last) steps in lymphatic massage are the biggest help in keeping a compromised lymph system functioning, so you might want to make that a part of your daily routine. In the morning, say, before getting out of bed. I like to do it before any strenuous exercise as well. Just makes good sense.

Check the fit of your sleeve and glove or gauntlet regularly, so when you need it, it'll be ready for you. Replace it as needed.

Stay well hydrated, especially when active. One of the most common ways to trigger a serious lymphedema progression is infection, so avoid bug bites and burns, and tend to any nicks and scratches promptly.

All good! Be well,Binney

karody - So you're a 'can chaser'! Fantastic - I do envy in a way those who do but other than a short time in my late teens I haven't (bad accident where I almost lost my gelding in a really bad fall around the last can). After that I got into jumpers (not hunters - there is a big difference). Then added Dressage and CT. Not to forget time as a back country guide. Today, I no longer compete seriously - haven't for quite a few years. I do continue to work (mostly dressage but do pop fences sometimes) as if I was but also enjoy just riding a lot.