Exercise is an important and useful tool in the prevention, treatment, and management of lymphedema. The effect of exercise on the lymphatic system increases the absorption of water by the initial lymphatics and enhances the pumping action of collecting lymphatics. It also activates the joints and strengthens the muscles of the affected limbs and trunk. The basic principle of exercise effect is to enhance lymphatic drainage by strengthening muscle contraction and sympathetic nervous system which leads to reduce edema. However, there is a concern that exercise may exacerbate lymphedema by increasing blood flow to the tissue and producing more lymphatic fluids. We have several key questions for the effect of exercise on lymphedema. May exercise increase the incidence of lymphedema? Is exercise effective for the improvement of physical function and quality of life in patients with lymphedema? Can exercise reduce the degree or size of lymphedema? The evidence for these questions needs to be accumulated to do exercise prescription properly for the patients with lymphedema or at risk. In this review, I will introduce the recent evidence on the effects of exercise in patients with lymphedema to help physicians to make appropriate exercise regimens.
Jae‐Young Lim (Thu,) studied this question.