Two new, unusual, not FDA -approved treatment options

Hi, elise,

I hear you on the frustration, and I'm so sorry! Really looking forward with you to better results with the night garment and the FlexiTouch. LE is a life changer, for sure, but hopefully you'll soon be getting some control back into your own hands!

The first article sure is interesting, and hopeful too. I talked to a couple of researcher friends about this, and though we're all hoping it's a breakthrough of grand proportions, the evidence isn't in yet. The research was done on mouse tails, which is a common first step in LE research because it's easy to induce LE in mouse tails and it gives at least an initial evaluation of the theory behind the research. One trouble with mouse-tail experiments, though (beyond the obvious fact they're not people limbs) is that LE tends to heal spontaneously in mouse tails, even if you do nothing at all. So, while it might indicate some potential, we're still a long way off from being able to predict what might happen in terms of either efficacy or safety in human use. (And besides, have you looked up the price of that stuff, even the generic--aaaugh!) Next steps would involve use of some other animal with less spontaneous healing capacity. One researcher suggested a pig or even a rat. Then eventually on to people. But there again, will this work for those of us with secondary LE (caused by cancer treatment), or on primary (genetic) LE as well? On adults or on children too? On those newly diagnosed or those with long-standing LE? What is the proper dosage for an entire arm or hand, and how long does the effect of the treatment last? Could it even be (all fingers crossed for this one!!) a CURE? And that's not even taking into account the problem of getting the funding for additional research, which is no small trick. In other words, jury's still out, but let's keep an eye on this and maybe even let our voices be heard on the issue of research funding, yes?!

The second link is one of those pop detox ideas that have to do with improving "the healthy lymph system," but really don't address a compromised one such as we all now own. A few years ago the lymph system became a very popular "new" idea with those in the "healthy bodies" business--spas, diet mongers, and the like. Which is not to say that's all bad--our lymph systems can use all the publicity they can get! Heaven knows they've been ignored for long enough! (Here's a look at a bit of lymphatic history, if you're interested: http://www.stepup-speakout.org/History_of_Lymphede... ) All these techniques gain a certain number of true believers, so it would be inappropriate to discount them completely. Just make sure the techniques you try are safe, especially for LE, and take it slow so you can judge the effects before getting too far along with it. So basically, if you have the time, money and interest to give it a try, that one at least is unlikely to cause you any harm, and it may make you feel a whole lot better. if you do, please do let us know what you discover, as we're all eager to learn and conquer!

Wishing you real answers and your life back in your own hands again soon!

In lieu of a cure, chocolate helps. Gentle hugs,
Binney