The Impact of Lymphedema Therapy on Quality of Life: A Case Report

Background and Purpose: Lymphedema is a chronic inflammatory lymphostatic disease known as the buildup of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues that can cause swelling and discomfort in the arms, legs, face, neck, trunk, abdomen, and genitals [1]. Failure of the lymphatic system causes lymphedema [1]. Lymphedema may reduce the quality of life and may progress as well as cause other complications such as cellulitis if untreated [1]. Although there is no cure for lymphedema, there are interventions to reduce or manage the swelling and the discomfort [1]. The purpose of this study is to show that a patient with lymphedema can improve their quality of life significantly with adequate lymphedema therapy interventions using Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). Method and Procedures: A 47-year-old African American female patient presented to outpatient physical therapy with a report of experiencing bilateral lower extremity swelling for about ten years. To determine the effects of the treatments, the lymphedema therapist examined the patient using the following tests and measures and outcome measurement tools: Bilateral Girth Measurements, the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale Version 2 (v2), and the Global Rating of Change (GRoC) Scale. The patient attended physical therapy sessions 2 times per week for 3 weeks not including the date of initial evaluation. Thus, the patient attended five treatment sessions. The patient actively participated in the creation of the current goal: to decrease bilateral lower extremity swelling. Results: On discharge assessment (6th visit), the patient reported a reduction in pain to (3/10). The patient scored a 12/68 on the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale (v2) indicating that her quality of life had improved significantly within the past three weeks since receiving lymphedema therapy services. The patient made excellent progress, demonstrated marked improvements with involved extremities lymphatic circulation, and decreased swelling with girth measurements. The patient reported significant improvements with functional activities of daily living such as standing, sitting to standing, and walking. The patient also reported that her quality of life improved significantly.