Swelling of the hand and arm, also sometimes known as “Puffy Hand Syndrome”, or lymphedema, is a condition where excess bodily fluid, usually lymph fluid, builds up in the hand and sometimes in the arm. The condition, if left untreated, can become quite uncomfortable, as the skin is stretched tight over the fluid-filled area. Additionally, a reduction in movement or range of motion may occur, due to the limb being engorged.
The lymphatic system is a delicate system comprised of lymph nodes and channels through which lymph fluid flows. It is the job of the lymphatic system to carry waste, dead cells, bacteria and viruses to the various organs for disposal: the kidneys, the digestive tract and the liver. As such, the lymphatic system is an important part of the immune system. Unlike the circulatory system, which is powered by a pump (the heart), the lymphatic system relies on gravity and the motion of the body to move the lymphatic fluid through the channels to remove waste from the body.
A build-up of lymphatic fluid in the hand and/or the arm can be the result of a variety of underlying conditions.Salt retention and pregnancy can generate this condition, as can heart and liver problems. Cellulitis may occur with edema in the hand and arm, particularly if the person has had radiation or breast surgery with lymph node removal. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in the limb which affects the skin and the fat below the skin. The infection is compounded by the damaged drainage channels where lymph nodes have been removed. Cellulitis and lymphedema can occur weeks, months, or even many years after the surgery or radiation.
Treatment for this condition requires specialists trained in the rehabilitation of the arm and the hand. A variety of modalities may be used to alleviate the pain and swelling, such as hot or cold packs, as well as electrical stimulation. Soft tissue massage may be performed, to help move the lymphatic fluid to reduce swelling and pain and to return to full mobility. Specific exercises may be prescribed to rehabilitate the hand and the arm, and to help prevent the build-up of fluid in the future.
If you have noticed swelling in your hand or arm, reach out to Dr. Rehman and her team of certified hand therapists today. A thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause will be conducted, and medication or other treatments will be included in a personalized, multi-faceted treatment plan to reduce the swelling and the discomfort, and to return your limb to full mobility. Call today for more information! 586-532-0803
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Related topics: http://breast-cancer.ca/breasulitis/
