Guidelines for Upper Limb Care

Positioning

Rest your affected limb in a comfortable position at or above heart level. This can be done on a cushion or the arm of your chair. However ensure that your elbow is straight.

Movement/Exercise:

Always wear compression garment when doing your exercises
Don't carry heavy loads, carry handbag on other shoulder.
Positioning: Rest arm comfortably on armrest while sitting
Stop exercising when you feel tired or uncomfortable
Ironing or vacuum-cleaning puts a lot strain on the affected limb. Try doing just a little at a time.

Exercise that is harder or more demanding than you usually do may make your lymphoedema worse, so avoid over exercising.

Deep breathing exercises will help to improve your deep lymphatic drainage so repeat these before and after exercises.

Clothes

Avoid tight and constrictive clothing.
Avoid narrow and tight waistbands as they will restrict lymph drainage.
Care with choice of bra - consider lycra like material with deep sides and wide shoulder straps, which can distribute weight well across shoulder and back.
Avoid tight jewellery
If you get cold easily, try wearing additional layers of clothing rather than using hot water bottles or electric blankets.

Try to wear overcoats with pockets at hip level, so you can keep your hand in your pocket to take the strain off your shoulders when you get tired.
Keep a small marble or pebble in pocket to encourage keeping your hands/fingers moving.
Skin Care: Use rubber gloves for household tasks. Gardening gloves while gardening and gloves while handling pets. These help guard skin against punctures, infection or excessive pressure
Use thimble when sewing.