Summer Exercise for People with Lymphedema: What Therapists Should Recommend

Warm weather brings fresh motivation to get moving, but for individuals managing lymphedema, choosing safe workouts requires extra care. Proper exercise can enhance lymphatic drainage, improve strength, and boost quality of life—but only when guided by evidence-based protocols. In this comprehensive guide, Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs) will find summer-friendly routines, aquatic therapy tips, and resources to empower patients to stay active—and safe—all season long.

• Muscle Pump Activation
  Gentle contractions of calf and upper-arm muscles serve as a “pump,” propelling lymph fluid through compromised vessels.
• Improved Range of Motion
  Regular movement prevents joint stiffness and fibrosis, promoting better limb mobility.
• Enhanced Quality of Life
  Exercise elevates mood, aids weight management, and reduces fatigue—common concerns for lymphedema patients.

Key Point: Even low-intensity routines can yield measurable benefits in lymph flow and patient confidence.

1. Start Low & Go Slow
   Begin with low-resistance, short-duration sessions. Gradually increase as tolerated under CLT supervision.
2. Compression Compliance
   Patients should wear prescribed compression garments during workouts to maintain therapeutic gradient pressure.
3. Hydration & Temperature Control
   Encourage frequent water breaks and avoid peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM). Indoor or shaded environments minimize heat-induced swelling.
4. Symptom Monitoring
   Teach patients to track limb circumference and note heaviness, pitting edema, or discomfort. Any red-flag sign warrants temporary rest and re-evaluation.
5. Balanced Program
   Combine aerobic, resistance, flexibility, and aquatic components for a holistic approach.

Water’s buoyancy reduces joint stress and provides uniform pressure to encourage lymph flow.

• Water Walking
  How-to: Walk forwards/backwards in chest-high water for 10–15 minutes.
  Benefit: Enhances lower-limb pump with minimal impact.
• Flutter Kicks & Leg Lifts
  How-to: Holding pool edge, alternate gentle leg kicks or slow lifts.
  Benefit: Activates calf muscles and hip flexors to drive lymph upward.
• Aqua Arm Circles
  How-to: In waist-high water, extend arms laterally and make small circles.
  Benefit: Stimulates axillary lymph nodes and deltoid pump.

• Stationary Cycling
  Duration: 10–20 minutes at light resistance.
  Tip: Ensure proper seat height to avoid hip flexor strain.
• Recumbent Elliptical
  Benefit: Supports both upper and lower extremities with controlled range of motion.
• Brisk Walking
  Tip: Recommend early morning or late afternoon to dodge peak heat. Encourage compression socks for lower-limb patients.

Use light resistance bands (TheraBands) or 1–3 lb weights. Aim for 2–3 sets of 10–15 reps.

• Bicep Curls & Tricep Extensions
  Maintain controlled speed; focus on full muscle contraction and slow release.
• Calf Raises
  How-to: Hold a stable surface, rise onto toes, then lower heels slowly.
  Tip: Pause at top for a 2-second hold to maximize pump action.
• Seated Leg Press with Band
  How-to: Loop band around foot, press forward while seated.
  Benefit: Engages quadriceps and glutes to optimize lymph movement.

1. Individualized Assessment
   Evaluate each patient’s stage of lymphedema, comorbidities, and baseline fitness to tailor intensity and progression.
2. Group Classes & Peer Support
   Small-group sessions foster accountability. Consider hosting Summer Lymphedema Fit Clubs at your clinic or community center.
3. Home Exercise Videos
   Provide short, patient-friendly video demos (2–5 minutes) illustrating each movement. Post these in a secure portal or email series.
4. Ongoing Monitoring
   Schedule weekly check-ins—virtual or in-person—to review logs, measure limbs, and adjust the plan.

1. Exercise is essential for lymphatic health—focus on low-impact, progressive routines.
2. Aquatic therapy offers unique benefits of buoyancy and uniform resistance.
3. Compression, hydration, and symptom monitoring must be integrated into every session.
4. Therapist-led education—through workshops, CEU courses, and patient handouts—boosts safety and adherence.

Explore Norton School’s full suite of lymphedema training programs—from aquatic therapy workshops to comprehensive CDT courses—and help your patients move confidently this summer.
View All Courses » | Contact Us for Group Training »