[LymphActivist]

Hi Europa,
Yes, there is an internationally-accepted protocol for lymphedema called (variously) complex/complete decongestive therapy (CDT). It comprises: manual lymph drainage (MLD); compression (bandages, garments, devices); specific decongestive exercises while under compression; and meticulous skin care. Generally it starts with 2-3 weeks of intensive care by a specially-trained and certified lymphedema therapist (daily MLD, bandaging, exercises, fitting for compression garment, and patient education on home maintenance) followed by home maintenance by the patient or aide (self-MLD, bandaging and/or garment wear, day and night as required, exercises, skin care).

This protocol may appear excessive, but recent research is starting to document that early attention to prevent swelling delays or prevents permanent tissue changes (fibrosis/hardening), fat deposits and inflammation. Early use of elastic compression and early MLD have been shown to prevent lymphedema [Stout, Zimmermann].