Why we swell

Here's the thing:  While swelling is part of your body's natural response to damage and disease, it shouldn't linger. Swelling rarely appears solo, preferring the company of teammates aches, pain and inflammation (to name a few). Edema and its symptoms manifest anywhere; most often in arms and legs, hands and feet.

Of course, not all swelling is created equal.

Following a trauma (injury or operation) swelling rapidly accumulates as lymph fluid carries cells and proteins to the site to fight infection and repair tissues. This acute edema calms over days and weeks depending on the intensity of the damage. In the meantime, accompanying soreness and mobility challenges impact your life.

On the other hand, chronic swelling doesn't dissipate with time.  It sets up shop and, without intervention, increases over months and years. Persistent edema may stem from an underlying health issue like diabetes, cancer, obesity and arthritis. Some are born with a chronic swelling condition or acquire it throughout life, as happens with lipedema and lymphedema.

What about swelling from other reasons? Yes, anytime there's an inflammatory component to a chronic disease, there's potential for edema and pain that MLD therapy can address.