Lymphedema is an incurable disease resulting from an accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space of the body. This improper drainage is commonly the result of surgical removal of lymph nodes. Left untreated, lymphedema can result in pain, infection, decreased function, and an overall reduction in quality of life. For these reasons effective treatment is critical for patients living with lymphedema. Treatment options for lymphedema include manual lymph drainage and exercise but compression therapy, perhaps the most effective treatment method, will be analyzed herein. Compression is a modality that applies pressure to a specific area on the body to primarily reduce swelling. Specifically, pneumatic compression therapy can modulate lymphedema by compressing an area of the body creating a pump to assist in circulation of fluid toward the trunk. Through the review of current literature, pneumatic compression therapy has been found to be efficacious in the treatment of lymphedema.
