Angela

[anw1]

Hi I have primary lymphedema in both legs left is the worst I need to get therapy and can't afford it I also need a personal trainer to help me I need help any suggestions

[AnneBury]

See what exercises the Lymphoedema Support Network have lymphoedema.org. You shouldn't need a personal trainer. Everyone I know manages without.

[Chocolate-e-clare]

Hi Angela, where do you live? Can you find a lymphedema therapist who can teach you and a carer how to get started with improving your condition? If you are going to exercise (which is great for lymphedema), you also need to wear good compression so that when you exercise the fluid moves in the right direction. When did you receive your diagnosis? To help you, we need some more information. With lymphedema, you need to find a personal trainer who understands this condition too. A great way to exercise with lymphedema is to get in a pool - stay away from hot tubs and saunas. With pool exercise, even just being in the water and walking is good for lymphedema (the water has a compression effect, greatest at your feet if you are standing, and it also unloads your joints so it's good if you have pain in your legs from arthritis). Give us some more information about your background and the difficulties you are facing. Feel free to message us too. I'm a physio (PT) from Australia (living in the USA for the time being).

[Chocolate-e-clare in reply to Chocolate-e-clare]

Also, I'm guessing you need a personal trainer to improve your fitness or lose weight? To second what AnneBury said, "you shouldn't need a personal trainer" - they won't help you directly with the lymphedema management - but if you are seeking one, make sure they understand the condition. With lymphedema, it's best that you find a CLT (certified lymphedema therapist, or an OT/PT/RN/MT trained in complex lymphedema therapy). Even if you can't afford a course of CDT (complete decongestive therapy), they should be able to advise you on how to get started (ex how to wrap, exercise, self massage and look after your skin). And give you ideas about the best type of compression for you.

[anw1 in reply to Chocolate-e-clare]

Hi I live in chicago,il and the health care here is so expensive and my left leg is so big that I can't walk or stand long I'm just need some kind of help

[Chocolate-e-clare in reply to anw1]

Thanks Angela. Can you give me your ZIP code? Have you seen anyone in the past before for your lymphedema and for treatment?

[Chocolate-e-clare in reply to Chocolate-e-clare]

I've messaged you - check your inbox

[anw1 in reply to Chocolate-e-clare]

60409 is my zip yes I have seen someone before that's when I had decent insurance now on on Medicare is difficult