Breast Cancer and Lymphoedema: Understanding the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body.

Following certain breast cancer treatments, particularly when lymph nodes are involved, some women may develop lymphoedema, which can cause swelling in the arm, hand, chest or another area.

Understanding the lymphatic system can help women recognise possible symptoms and understand why appropriate specialist care is important.

What is the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system helps regulate fluid in the tissues and plays an important role in immune function.

It includes lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, lymph and several lymphoid organs.

Lymphatic circulation interacts with movement and other physiological mechanisms within the body.

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema occurs when lymphatic fluid accumulates in the tissues.

After breast cancer treatment, it may develop in the arm, hand or chest area, depending on the individual situation.

It can sometimes appear relatively soon after treatment or develop months or even years later.

What symptoms should you look out for?

Possible signs include:

• unusual swelling;
• a feeling of heaviness or tightness;
• changes in the skin;
• persistent differences between the two arms;
• reduced comfort or movement.

Any new or persistent swelling should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.

How is lymphoedema managed?

Lymphoedema requires specific assessment and management.

Depending on the individual situation, care may include compression, exercise, specialised techniques and personalised advice.

Specialist physiotherapy can play an important role in lymphoedema management.

What about manual lymphatic drainage?

Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised technique that should be performed by a properly trained professional.

It is important to distinguish between lymphatic treatments aimed at general comfort and the specialised management of lymphoedema following cancer treatment.

After breast cancer, an appropriate assessment is important before any specific treatment.

What role can osteopathy play?

Osteopathy does not treat lymphoedema.

It may sometimes have a complementary role in supporting general comfort and mobility, depending on the individual situation.

It should not replace specialist lymphoedema management.

A broader approach to circulation

Outside the specific context of cancer-related lymphoedema, women may also seek care for sensations such as heavy legs, fluid retention or a feeling of congestion.

These situations are different from lymphoedema following breast cancer treatment.

An appropriate assessment helps determine what type of care may be relevant.

FAQ

Is lymphoedema common after breast cancer?
Lymphoedema is a possible complication, and the risk varies according to the treatments received and the extent to which the lymphatic system has been affected.

Can lymphatic drainage make lymphoedema disappear?
Manual lymphatic drainage may be part of specialised lymphoedema management, but treatment should be individualised and may involve several approaches.

Can osteopathy treat lymphoedema?
No. Osteopathy is not a treatment for lymphoedema.

What should I do if my arm becomes swollen after breast cancer treatment?
Contact your medical team or an appropriate healthcare professional so that the swelling can be assessed and managed correctly.

Key takeaway

Lymphoedema is a condition that requires appropriate assessment and specialised care.

If swelling develops after breast cancer treatment, it is important to seek professional advice rather than trying to manage the problem alone.

Osteopathy may sometimes complement care focused on general comfort and mobility, but it does not replace specialised lymphoedema treatment.