There are four sorts of physical treatment that will help you to control the swelling.
Caring for your skin stops the skin from becoming dry and keeps it in good condition. Moisturise your skin every day – and use a cream rather than a lotion. There is a spray – on moisturiser that you can use.
Watch out for any signs that the skin is getting sore. If this happens and if you start to feel like you are starting with ‘flu you may be starting with cellulites. You will need to start a fourteen day course of antibiotics as soon as possible.
An important way of keeping the swelling under control is compression. Most of the time this will mean that you will need a firm stocking or sleeve to wear on your swollen limb. There are many different sorts of garments and often you will be able to choose a style and colour but all the swollen area needs to be covered. They work best if you wear them during the day while you get on with life. They should fit comfortably and will keep the limb softer and less swollen.
A special kind of massage will help to stimulate the lymph to drain out of the swollen area. It is called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). You will be shown a massage to do for yourself and this is called simple lymphatic drainage (SLD). MLD is different to usual massage as it starts around the neck and body before massaging the swollen limb. It is very gentle and soothing and works by draining lymph away from the swollen area.
Try to find an activity or hobby that will use your muscles to pump lymph away. Activities such as swimming, dancing, yoga, pilates, t’ai chi, horseriding or athletics can all help and will make you feel good. It is important that you build up your strength and abilities gradually and increase timing gradually so that you do not overload your lymph system. Wearing your compression garment for exercise will help the muscles to pump more effectively. Some people prefer to bandage their limb after exercising as they feel it helps. If you play contact sports it is important to use protective clothing and padding over the swollen area to avoid injury to the skin and tissues.