Lymphedema is the swelling--also called edema--that occurs in either your arm or leg as a result of compromised lymphatic drainage. Your lymphatic system circulates fluid that gathers waste to be excreted by your body, according to MayoClinic.com. Malformed lymph nodes and those that have been surgically removed to treat cancer can cause a buildup of fluid called lymphedema. Exercise can help reduce the pooling of fluid caused by lymphedema.
Yoga
Because of the swelling in your affected limb, your skin may feel too tightly stretched and generally uncomfortable. Lymphnotes.com, an online resource about this type of edema, explains that slow-movement forms of exercise like yoga, tai chi and stretching in general can help reduce the tightness in your skin and can contribute to an increased range of motion in your affected limb.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise--any type of workout that elevates your heart rate--is safe for lymphedema sufferers and when combined with compression garments or bandages can promote better circulation of lymph fluids. Bonnie Lasiniski of Lymphedema Therapy states that you should take care to start exercising slowly and not push your affected limb too hard. For example, if you have swelling in your arm, fast-paced racquet sports may be too vigorous for you to start with, but can be a goal to work up to. Similarly, if your leg is affected by lymphedema, jog in moderation until you know how your limb will respond.
Weight Lifting
Lifting weights is a strengthening exercise that is safe and effective in controlling the swelling of lymphedema, according to BreastCancer.org. Women who have had lymph nodes under their arms removed during breast cancer treatment may find excess fluid buildup in their arms. Strength training through free weights should be a gradual process to be sure that you do not experience an increase in the swelling in the affected arm. As you work with weights, the movements of your muscles as they contract helps pump out the fluids that have collected in your arm.
