Firstly, not all cancer surgery involves lymph nodes, so speak to your specialist about your individual risk. I mainly see people following breast, groin, head and neck surgery.

Research actually tells us that we should have an assessment prior to surgery as early intervention is the key to good preventative treatment. After surgery changes may be very subtle and it is difficult to know if a problem is developing.

Early limb measurements and range of movement assessment can detect early changes and ensure you are getting the right exercises and self care management plan. Some people have poor arm movement or have uneven limb measurements prior to surgery so how can you tell if a problem is developing. One of the things my clients often say is  ‘I wish someone told me about this stuff earlier!’

Your risk depends on your individual situation. In many cases your risk will be very low.  You should discuss this with your surgeon.

The most recent information from 2018/19 tells us that risk depends on:

• Number of axillary lymph nodes removed. Ask your surgeon about the type of surgery (sentinel node or axillary clearance) and how many nodes were taken.
• Radiotherapy to the axilla and or clavicular nodes
• Taxane chemotherapy
• Post operative infection
• Recurrent seroma
• Activity level. Movement is good whereas inactivity is not so good

There are a few other minor things which can affect your risk but these are the main ones. Some you can change but others you cannot. PLEASE – do not go and  start an aerobic exercise program or weight program. These things need to be started slowly and under supervision; especially if you are still undergoing treatment.

A seroma is a pocket of clear fluid that sometimes develops in the body after surgery. It may go away on its own within a few weeks or months. as the body slowly reabsorbs the fluid. If it is large or painful your specialist may order it to be drained. It is not dangerous but can be annoying.

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition so I have to say no, it cannot be cured. However, like diabetes (another chronic condition), if you have a good self management plan the effects of this condition can decrease.

Current research tells us that lymph nodes do not grow back but lymphatic pathways can be encouraged to work better with gentle treatment therapies.

Good skin care, regular exercise and lymphatic exercises along with other self care techniques can bring about excellent results and minimalise the effect on your daily life.