Science & Education Archives | Lymphedema Products Blog

Axillary Web Syndrome (Cording): What It Feels Like + What Helps

December 3, 2025

If you’ve had breast surgery—especially surgery that involved lymph node removal—and you suddenly feel a tight, pulling “string” in your armpit or down your inner arm, you’re not imagining it. Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS), often called cording, is a real (and surprisingly common) post-surgical issue that can make simple movements—like reaching for a shelf or washing your hair—feel uncomfortable and restricted.

Lymphedema and Life Expectancy: Live with Optimism

SScience & Education

Lymphedema and Life Expectancy in 2025: Live With Optimism

November 11, 2025

For individuals diagnosed with lymphedema, concerns about life expectancy and long-term health outcomes often arise. This article explores how lymphedema affects overall health, dispels common myths, and provides strategies for managing the condition effectively while embracing a hopeful outlook.

SScience & Education

Lymphedema After Surgery: What to Expect and How to Manage It

November 5, 2025

After surgery, some swelling is expected as your body begins to heal. However, in certain cases, this swelling—known as post-surgical swelling—can become more than temporary. When the lymphatic system is disrupted or damaged during surgery, it can lead to lymphedema, a chronic condition characterized by fluid buildup, swelling, and tissue changes in the affected area.

Healthcare professional measuring a patient’s arm covered by a beige compression sleeve in a bright clinic.

SScience & Education

What Makes Lymphedema Worse?

October 21, 2025

This guide breaks down the most common—and often overlooked—lymphedema triggers that can intensify swelling, invite infection, and disrupt daily life. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time self-manager, understanding these factors empowers you to make smarter choices every day.

SScience & Education

Understanding Fibrosis in Lymphedema: Causes, Signs, and Management

October 15, 2025

In patients with lymphedema, fibrosis can make swelling more difficult to reduce and less responsive to treatment. Understanding fibrosis — and how to prevent or manage it — is crucial for maintaining healthy lymphatic flow and soft, pliable tissue.

SScience & Education

CDT Certification: How to Become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist with Norton School

October 1, 2025

Lymphedema is a chronic and often misunderstood condition that affects millions worldwide. For patients, finding the right care can be life-changing, and for healthcare professionals, becoming a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) opens doors to a rewarding and impactful career. At the heart of this career path is CDT certification, the gold standard in lymphedema training.

SScience & Education

Neck Lymphedema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

September 24, 2025

Neck lymphedema, often developing after cancer treatment or surgery, can cause swelling, discomfort, and even difficulty speaking or swallowing. Early recognition and proper care are essential to prevent complications and improve quality of life. In our latest blog, we explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options—from manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy to exercises and skin care—that can help manage neck lymphedema effectively.

difference between lymphedema compression garments and shapewear

CCompression Therapy

The Difference Between Medical Compression Wear and Shapewear

September 3, 2025

At first glance, compression wear and shapewear may look alike. Both garments hug the body tightly and are often worn under clothing. However, their functions are entirely different. While shapewear’s purpose is to enhance the silhouette and provide a sleeker look under clothing, medical-grade compression wear is prescribed for serious health conditions, including lymphedema and post-surgical recovery.

Measuring upper arm with a flexible tape for compression sleeve sizing

SScience & Education

How to Measure for a Compression Sleeve (Step-by-Step)

August 19, 2025

Getting the right size is the single most important factor in how a compression arm sleeve feels and performs. A sleeve that’s too small will dig, roll, or pinch. Too large, and it slips, wrinkles, and won’t deliver the gradient you need. This guide walks you through a clinician-approved, brand-agnostic measuring process you can do at home or in clinic—and shows how to map those numbers to popular brand charts.

Fan-pattern kinesiology tape on a forearm for lymphatic drainage in lymphedema.

TTips & Guides

Kinesio Taping for Lymphedema: What the Evidence Really Says (2025 Guide)

August 12, 2025

Kinesio®/kinesiology taping is everywhere—from marathon finish lines to the clinic. In lymphedema care, you’ll hear it called lymphatic or “fan” taping: thin, elastic strips applied with light tension to nudge fluid toward healthier drainage pathways. But does it actually help?