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Lymphedema Therapy

Lymphedema is a condition involving fluid buildup that causes swelling—often in the arms or legs—commonly following cancer treatments like surgery or radiation. Early detection and management are essential, as prompt treatment can reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and improve mobility. While not everyone will develop lymphedema, those at higher risk are encouraged to consult their care team and prepare in advance. Management options include therapy from certified lymphedema therapists—registered massage therapists with specialized training in lymphatic drainage—and the use of compression garments designed to promote fluid movement.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a condition where excess fluid builds up in the body’s tissue causing swelling. This is usually in the arms and legs but can occur in the head, neck or trunk. This can happen after surgery or radiation. This is not the initial swelling that happens during the healing process. That should settle as you heal. Lymphedema is something that can occur gradually and become a chronic problem. The symptoms can be subtle and the area can just feel tight or a little heavy. It can be obvious if you can see that your arm or leg is bigger than the other one. The more swelling there is the more uncomfortable or even painful it can be. 


Not everyone gets this. It depends on the type of surgery or area of radiation and whether or not damage occurred that could cause a backup of the fluid.


Lymphedema can be temporary or long-term. Treating it early helps reduce damage from fluid buildup and increases the chances of resolving or at least having a smaller amount of chronic swelling.


It's a good idea to prepare for potential lymphedema while you're not too tired from treatment. Not everyone will develop it, so consult your surgeon or radiation doctor. If they believe you’re at high risk, learning the symptoms in advance can help you spot the problem early and start treatment sooner. Starting treatment as early as possible can reduce pain, prevent further damage and possibly speed up healing. In the short term, treating it also makes it more comfortable by relieving weight of the fluid and the stretch on the area.

What is Lymphedema Therapy?

Lymphatic therapy is a combination of hands on Manual Lymphatic Drainage (specialised massage), education to learn how to manage the lymphedema yourself, lymphatic exercises and regular exercise, skin care and lymphedema compression garments. 


Certified Lymphatic massage therapists can help guide you on this or there are links online for basic information.

Lymphedema Therapists

A lymphedema therapist is a registered massage therapist who has completed 135 hours of post-graduate training in lymphedema drainage. The therapy typically involves a combination of manual lymphatic drainage and the use of compression garments for managing lymphedema.


This is not covered by OHIP, you must self pay or use private insurance.

Lymphedema Compression Garments

  • What is a Lymphedema Garment?

    Lymphedema compression garments are specially designed clothing, such as sleeves, stockings, or wraps, that apply gentle pressure to the affected area, usually the arms, legs,  torso, head, neck and genital areas. These garments help reduce swelling by promoting the flow of lymph fluid and preventing it from accumulating in tissues. They are commonly used in the treatment of lymphedema to manage symptoms, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of complications, such as infections. The garments are typically made of elastic materials and come in various sizes and compression levels, tailored to each individual’s needs.

    More About Lymphedema Garments

  • How do I get a Lymphedema Garment?

    1. See your specialist: The specialist can be your surgeon or your cancer doctor. Their examination will confirm if you need compression garments and they will fill in the form and refer you to an Authoriser.


    2. ADP Lymphedema Certified Authorizer: They will assess the lymphedema, do treatments as appropriate and get the initial measurements. 

    3. Then see an ADP Lymphedema Fitter: They will measure, fit and order garments for you. They can help you complete the forms.


    ADP-recognized compression therapy vendors/fitters:

  • Assistive Devices Program Funding

    The Assistive Device Program (ADP) provides funding that may be eligible for up to 75% of the cost of compression garments for arms and legs. Unfortunately compression garments for other body parts are not covered by this program but you may have coverage through your private insurance.

    Garments, Pumps & Orthotic Braces