[swimangel72]

My oncologist had NO information at all that was helpful for my lymphedema - but fortunately he did give me a referral to a fantastic lymphedema therapist. She was very thorough and up-to-date with everything. I only had 2 lymph nodes removed with the SNB but 5 were removed in the breast area during my mastectomy. I developed painful cording and very very slight swelling in my right arm which she treated. I regained full range-of-motion but she did fit me for a sleeve and gauntlet which she told me to wear when flying. When I asked her about swimming, she did a lot of research then told me that swimming was excellent exercise for lymphedema patients (the pressure of the water against the skin helps move lymph fluid) but she said NO hot tubs. I was disappointed because we had a hot tub, but in the meantime, the pumps started leaking so I gave it away (too expensive to repair - and it needed a new cover which would have cost $450.) Still I miss the hot tub, especially on beautiful snowy cold clear nights we've been experiencing this past week!