with Naomi Dolgoy M.OT, CLT, PhD
Oct 19, 2026 | 12:00 PM EDT | Free Living Well with Lymphedema: Occupational Therapy Strategies for Everyday Life
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Therapist Perspectives
Addressing dressing
An introduction to lymphedemafriendly apparel By Naomi Dolgoy, Kerri McBee-Black and Elizabeth Anderson FIGURE 1
Abstract
seam lines in shirts and underwear. Lymph drains along the sides of the trunk, and lymph nodes also concentrate along the neck, elbows, and knees making length, fit, and style of apparel important considerations.4 When considering apparel options, it helps to understand which designs, materials, and types of clothing and accessories may be most effective for dressing with lymphedema. 3
Lymphedema presents daily challenges when choosing and wearing apparel. Clothing design, fabric construction, and the location of symptoms influence comfort and can worsen lymphedema. The limited literature describing apparel challenges for people living with lymphedema provides some insight into apparel challenges. Eidenberger et al. completed a systematic review highlighted the scarcity of suitable clothing options.1 Viehoff et al. also noted difficulties individuals face sourcing adapted apparel.2 Healthcare professionals offer dressing advice for individuals living with lymphedema, but it often does not translate well to retail apparel. Our goal in this article is to share our experience and knowledge as researchers and clinicians in the fields of occupational therapy, apparel design, and nursing, to better support apparel choices for those living with lymphedema. What does a lymphedema-friendly outfit look like?
To reduce complications and promote comfort and body image, various factors should be considered. Some individuals may benefit from compression or shape wear, like seamless intimates (e.g., underwear), while others may prefer loose-fitting, breathable clothing to accommodate swelling. Figure 1 shows how key lymph node clusters—such as axillary (underarm) and inguinal (groin)—align with
Lymph nodes mapped to body.
Necklines – Lymph nodes around the
neck make wider, boat-shaped, or draped necklines ideal for comfort and coverage. Square necklines offer room across the chest, while V-necks and button fronts elongate the neckline but provide less coverage. High-fitted turtlenecks can restrict areas affected by facial or neck lymphedema and should be used with caution. Sleeves/armholes – Sleeves cover the arms,
and armholes are the entry point for the arms.5 With the axillary lymph nodes concentrated in the armpit area, swelling may occur in the shoulders, arms, and hands. Wider sleeves and armholes can improve comfort and reduce restriction. Asymmetrical or off-shoulder styles may provide additional space. Sleeve length also matters. Tank tops or capped sleeves with wider armholes allow airflow and comfort. Be cautious with tight mid-forearm or ¾ – length sleeves, which may restrict at the elbow. Tapered sleeves can also limit circulation at the wrist. Look for ribbed or loose elastic sleeve
hems for flexibility. Figure 2 showcases the specific sleeve lengths. Comfortable sleeve styles include: • Dropped sleeves/armholes (wider around armpits) •D olman/batwing sleeves (wide from shoulder to elbow) •K imono sleeves (wide from shoulder to wrist) •D ashiki sleeves (wide with varied lengths) • T rumpet and bell sleeves (flowy, wide at the wrist)
Naomi Dolgoy M.OT, PhD, CLT works as an Assistant Professor in Occupational Therapy at the
University of Alberta. Kerri McBee-Black PhD Associate Professor and Helen Allen Faculty Fellow University of Missouri Textile and Apparel Management Department. Elizabeth Anderson PhD, RN, CLT, COL(R), AN, USAR is an Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia Sinclair School of Nursing, USA.
Summer 2025
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FIGURE 2
Sleeve lengths.
Chest/bust – Edema may affect the chest
and back, requiring apparel with either compression or a loose fit. Loose options include shrugs, open sweaters, cardigans, scarves, and oversized shirts. These offer coverage without tightness. Wrap dresses, dusters, and adjustable-tie tops allow for a customizable fit. A bolero (short jacket) can provide either compression or a loose fit at the upper chest and back edema. For those garments that provide a loose fit, shrugs, open cardigans, oversized dress shirts, modern dusters FIGURE 3
Waistlines and styles.
(a loose-fitting long shirt or coat), wrap dresses and sweaters, and loose silk scarves can provide coverage without adding tightness and support size adjustment for those areas prone to swelling or that swell over time. Brassiere (bra) options range from compressive sports bras to looser shelf bras. Adaptive bras with magnetic closures or easy snaps assist with limited arm function.6 Seamless intimates reduce friction and pressure. Adaptive designs also include front-closure garments to accommodate medical ports intravenous access lines, or treatment areas (e.g., radiation fields). Waist – The natural waist sits just below the belly button. As the trunk of the body serves as an important area for lymph drainage, it is important to avoid tight or cinched clothing and accessories in this region to prevent fluid buildup.
Figure 3 showcases waistline friendly styles, which include: • Empire waist (below the bust) for upper abdominal comfort • Paper bag waists, tunics, A-line styles, and tent dresses for unstructured fits • Drop waist (below natural waist) for lower abdomen comfort Adjustable waist features like wrap ties, drawstrings, or soft elastic waistbands add
flexibility. Choose knit fabrics, which stretch more than woven ones. Intimate underwear styles affect fit and comfort. The positioning of underwear can impact trunk, groin, upper leg, and inguinal node fluid movement. If swelling presents in these areas, it is important to consider different options for the style and fit of underwear. In some cases, underwear with mild compression, such as intimate shapewear, can be helpful in managing swelling, whereas in other cases, a looser fit or sizing up may be more beneficial for fluid management and comfort. Seamless underwear minimizes friction and prevents pressure against the inguinal lymph nodes in the groin. Some underwear styles also include pouches for penile support or moisture pads. Commonly available underwear style options include: • Briefs (natural waist, snug leg) – offering coverage for the lower abdominal area, this style can be worn with a flexible fit through sizing up as needed. • High cut (natural waist, wide leg) – offering higher coverage, with less snugness in the legs, to accommodate potential upper leg swelling. • Hipsters/bikinis (low waist, short cut) – with a lower fit on the trunk, these styles can be useful for fluid movement, and for bodies that do not have swelling along the lower trunk; the full fit across the back can be comfortable for people wearing compression garments over their underwear. • Boy shorts (longer leg coverage) – the longer fit in the legs can be helpful for managing seams along the inguinal node area if swelling is present. Knees/legs – Behind the knees are lymph
node clusters and the lower legs and feet are common swelling areas. Consider looser fitting pant styles and ensure flexible ankle fits—especially if compression garments are worn.7-8 Figure 4 showcases styles and lengths of lower body apparel. Pants styles optimal for lymphedema management include: 18 w w w. l y m p h e d e m a p a t h w a y s . c a
Summer 2025
• Trousers - straight leg with relaxed fit • Wide-leg - loose or relaxed fit throughout • Tulip hem - overlapping lower leg • Capris and culottes - mid-calf with loose fit • Drop-crotch/harem - for groin or scrotal swelling • Stovepipe/barrel - wider down the leg, ensures waist and ankle are loose fitting
FIGURE 4
Pant and shorts lengths.
• Boot cut - snug knee, flared hem—offers a roomier fit in the lower leg should swelling only be present below the knee • Flare - wider leg overall
With a few key choices, apparel shopping can be a fun and personal style activity that supports lymphedema management.
Active wear, like leggings, offers comfort and mild compression. Prioritize elasticity and avoid tight lower-leg seams. Flared active wear styles are better for lower leg and foot swelling as they will not create tension around the lower leg. Fabric choice matters—for example, elastic denim is more forgiving than traditional stiff types of denim.
living with lymphedema. This article provides an overview of style and fabric suggestions for apparel and intimates shopping along with lymphedema management rationales. With a few key choices, apparel shopping can be a fun and personal style activity that supports lymphedema management. LP
Conclusion
References can be found at
Apparel choice and wear can present significant challenges for people of all ages
https://canadalymph.ca/ pathways-references
How to cite: Dolgoy N, Mcee-Black, K. Anderson E. Addressing dressing. An introduction to lymphedema-friendly apparel. Pathways. 2025; 14(3): 17-19. DOI: https://doi.org/10.70472/OIWT8554
Specialist Clinic for Lymphology
Picturesque Black Forest mountain range in close proximity of Switzerland and France
European Center for Lymphology
Strassburg
GERMANY
FRANCE
Do you suffer from Lymphedema?
Freiburg Basel
The Foeldi Clinic, European Center for Lymphology, in the Black Forest, Germany offers a special treatment.
What we offer: 4 WEEKS
of intensive lymphological decongestive therapy includes: • Specialist medical care by experienced MD‘s • Daily decongestive therapy by our specialised lymphedema therapists (expert manual lymph drainage and bandaging) and many different decongestive movement therapies as part of group therapy • Wound treatment if necessary by our certified wound experts and psychological support if necessary by our psychotherapists • Accommodation and meals at the Foeldi Clinic
www.foeldiklinik.de/en/
Summer 2025
Zürich
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Price for a 4-week treatment: 15.000 US $
(with accompanying person in the same room 20.000 US $)
Price for a 4-week outpatient treatment: 13.000 US $ Contact:
Dr. Tobias Bertsch
Medical Director tobias.bertsch@foeldiklinik.de
Includes transfer to and from Zurich or Frankfurt airport
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Therapist Perspective
Getting off on the right foot An introduction to lymphedemafriendly footwear
By Naomi Dolgoy, Kerri McBee-Black, Amy Beaith-Johnson and Elizabeth Anderson Introduction
Properly fitted footwear can offer support for managing lymphedema in the feet while maximizing mobility and comfort. When lymphedema presents in the foot, it typically includes swelling at the top (dorsal) side of the foot and into the toes.1,2 A positive Stemmer’s sign involves being unable to pinch the skin at the base of the first and second toes, indicating the presence of swelling.3 Swelling in the foot, and a positive Stemmer’s sign are indicators that finding well-fitting footwear may be challenging. Secondary to swelling, disruption to circulation in the foot can lead to other issues in the feet, including brittle nails, skin breakdown and/or extensive callusing, and limited range of motion in the ankle, arch and toes.1-4 Further, neuropathy, meaning a lack of sensation, increases mobility challenges and risks for skin and wound-related issues.5 Any or all the above issues make it difficult to tolerate footwear. Given the different footbed types and variety of footwear available, it is important to factor in shape, size, fabric texture, and activity needs when selecting footwear.6 Our goal for this article is to share our knowledge and experience about finding lymphedemafriendly footwear. Finding appropriate lymphedemafriendly footwear
Criteria for selecting shoes, include fit, fashion, expression, function, and purpose. Fit is often considered the most critical
component in determining the effectiveness of a shoe. When managing lymphedema and swelling in the feet, some people use footwear as a compression option, choosing leather shoes with a snugger fit. Others seek a wider shoe with a roomier fit for comfort. In either case, the same principles of effective fit are relevant. A shoe needs to be comfortable to wear, offer room for toes to splay, and allow the foot to fit into the shoe without friction.6 There is a lot to learn about how a shoe will fit by looking at its shape, sole, openings/ closures, and materials. Shape: The shape of the shoe (based on
the outsole or bottom layer that touches the ground) should be wider and longer than your foot to ensure that your foot will comfortably fit in the shoe. Try flipping over a shoe and matching the bottom of your foot to the outsole to determine whether the size and shape of the shoe will fit or be too constricting. If your foot sticks out over the edge of the shoe or is wider than the base, then the shoe will not be a good fit. Constriction in footwear creates pressure on the lateral sides of the feet, leading to blisters, pressure points and even bunions.6 Swelling in the top of the foot and across the toes may require a roomier shoe design. A high volume fit (meaning that there is extra depth and width to the shoe) and wide toe box design (allowing toes to splay in the shoe) may be effective for comfort and fit, and in accommodating swelling, orthotics and braces. Many brands offer width options and/or programs to
A shoe needs to be comfortable to wear, offer room for toes to splay, and allow the foot to fit into the shoe without friction.6
accommodate different sizes for each foot, meeting individual shape needs.7 Sole: The sole or base of a shoe will
vary based on the intended use. Select a flatter outsole for a shoe intended primarily for indoors; consider grips and textures to help manage changing terrains
Naomi Dolgoy M.OT, PhD; Occupational Therapy, University of Alberta, Canada. Kerri McBee-Black PhD, Textile and Apparel Management, University of Missouri, USA. Amy Beaith-Johnson MISt., Lymph Well, Alberta, Canada. Elizabeth Anderson PhD, RN, CLT, COL(R), AN, USAR; Nursing, Sinclair School of Nursing,
University of Missouri, USA.
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Wide openings are helpful for feet prone to lymphedema swelling as the size of a foot at the start of the day may be different than after a day on our feet or after wearing a compression garment.
for a shoe intended for outside use on variable surfaces (e.g., yard, sidewalk). For some people, changing shoes during the day may be challenging, so a multipurpose shoe that can handle both indoor and outdoor conditions may be worth considering. If neuropathy is a concern, grips on the sole can be helpful. Openings and closures: There are many styles
of openings and closures for footwear. From complex lacing systems to buttons, zippers, and slip-ons, managing how we get into and secure our feet in our shoes is important for fit and safety. Wide openings are helpful for feet prone to lymphedema swelling as the size of a foot at the start of the day may be different than after a day on our feet or after wearing a compression garment. Consider the time of day for trying on footwear, as ankle circumference (the size of the ankle) and foot volume are often reduced in the morning and increase at the end of the day. Some people find that trying on shoes at midday reflects their average size. Easy closures, such as Velcro systems, elastic laces, or slip-ons with wide openings and/or open-backs, may also be helpful. Consider the purpose of the shoe: an openback option may work well for a home slipper, but it is likely not the proper footwear for walking outside on uneven terrain or going on a hike, as it can be a risk for falls. Materials: The materials used in a shoe
significantly impact comfort and effectiveness.
Leather, suede, nubuck, and Lycra canvas are known for their breathability and stretch. In contrast, polyester or synthetic materials may not offer the same benefits. Plastic footwear, while easy to clean, is known to hold moisture. Ideally, shoes should maintain a dry climate, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to skin breakdown. Selecting a breathable, stretchable material can be effective for managing lymphedema. If managing neuropathy alongside swelling, a fabric sock-shoe with grips on the sole may be effective for multipurpose use and managing both swelling and sensory issues. Padding on the inside of the shoe and below the foot may offer comfort depending on how your arch and instep fit into the shoe. It is essential to consider foot shape and typical foot swelling when selecting footwear. Consider shoe usage; for example, a winter or rain boot needs to have some insulation, but too much plastic may lead to reduced breathability and increased heat retention in the shoe. Materials used in socks and compression hosiery are important to consider alongside those used in footwear. Sweat-absorbing properties such as those found in cotton, merino wool, or polyester-based socks may be essential. For feet that tend to feel hot, cotton material helps keep them cool, or a mesh fabric may be helpful for breathability. For feet that tend to feel cold, having wool-based hosiery may help to insulate the shoe. Additionally, ensuring that compression fits and does not cause friction or shear with the materials used in the footwear is crucial. We suggest two approaches: (1) trying on a shoe with the compression or socks you most often wear to ensure a proper fit; (2) using a lace-up shoe to augment compression in place of Velcro-closure foot-compression garments that often do not fit into regular shoes.
Conclusion
Whether wearing slippers at home, formal footwear, athletic shoes, sandals, or winter boots, we recommend purchasing shoes with a shape and size slightly larger than your foot. Soles should be made to manage your daily activities, and the fastenings, openings, and closures should be user-friendly. The materials should be breathable and fit your body temperature needs. LP References 1. Stolldorf DP, Dietrich MS, Ridner SH. Symptom frequency, intensity, and distress in patients with lower limb lymphedema. Lymphatic Research and Biology. 2016;14(2):78-87. doi:10.1089/ lrb.2015.0027 2. Gasparis AP, Kim PS, Labropoulos N, et al. Diagnostic approach to lower limb lymphedema. Phlebology: The Journal of Venous Disease. 2020;35(9):650-655. doi:10.1177/0268355520938283 3. Sudduth CL, Greene AK. Primary lymphedema: Update on genetic basis and management. Advances in Wound Care. 2022;11(7):374-381. doi:10:1089/ wound.2020.1338 4. Dean SM, Valenti E, Hock K, et al. The clinical characteristics of lower extremity lymphedema in 440 patients. Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders. 2020;8(5):851-859. doi:10.1016.j.jvsv.2019.11.014 5. Abbade, L. P. F., & Miot, H. A. (2023). Ulcers Legs and Lymphedema. In Dermatology in Public Health Environments: A Comprehensive Textbook (pp. 1651-1671). Cham: Springer International Publishing. 6. Tedeschi, R.; Giorgi, F.; Donati, D. Footwear and Foot Health: Unveiling the Role of Proper Shoe Fit in Preventing Podiatric Issues and Enhancing Well-Being. Appl. Sci. 2024, 14, 9938. https://doi.org/10.3390/ app14219938 7. Zappos. Single Shoes. Retrieved on July 1, 2025, from https://www.zappos.com/ shoes/CK_XAToCjyziAgIBBw.zso
How to cite: Dolgoy N, McBee-Black K, Beaith-Johnson A, Anderson E. Getting off on the right foot: An introduction to lymphedema-friendly footwear. Pathways. 2025;14(4):19-20.DOI: https://doi.org/10.70472/PUFZ1744
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Therapist Perspectives
Living with lymphedema:
The role of occupational therapy in lymphedema management By Lauren Samycia, Tina Do, Rheanna Ramos, and Jordan Chabeniuk Abstract
Occupational therapy is an important but often under-recognized professional support for people living with lymphedema. While lymphedema care is often discussed in terms of medical management, compression, massage, and complete decongestive therapy, occupational therapy (OT) brings a distinct focus on daily life and function: routines, roles, self-management, participation, energy management, accessibility, and independence. This article introduces the unique role of occupational therapy in lymphedema care, explains how OT differs from other forms of therapy, and explores practical ways OTs can support people in managing everyday challenges such as dressing, compression routines, fatigue, work, travel, skin care, home set-up, and social participation.
What is occupational therapy?
If you have never worked with an occupational therapist, you are not alone. In health care, “occupation” refers to the everyday activities that give your life meaning and structure: getting dressed in the morning, preparing meals, going to work, caring for your family, pursuing hobbies, and staying connected with the people you love. Occupational therapists (OTs) are regulated health professionals who help people participate in the activities that matter most to them, even when illness, injury, or chronic conditions create barriers. OTs consider the whole person, including physical abilities, emotional wellbeing, environment, roles, and routines, and work with you to find practical ways to stay engaged in daily life.1 OT is often confused with other therapies, and it helps to understand the difference. Physiotherapists focus primarily on movement, strength, and physical rehabilitation. Massage therapists address soft tissue and muscle tension. In lymphedema care specifically, certified lymphedema therapists (CLTs) are trained in complete decongestive therapy (CDT), which includes manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging, exercise, and skin care to
manage swelling directly. These are all valuable and complementary roles, but none of them is the same as OT.2 Where OT is distinct is in its focus on function and participation. An OT does not only ask “how is your swelling?” but rather “what are you finding harder to do, and what would help?” That shift in focus, from symptoms to daily life, is what makes occupational therapy a unique and often underused resource for people living with lymphedema.2 OTs can work alongside your existing care team to help you adapt routines, manage energy, problem-solve daily challenges, and stay engaged in the activities that matter most to you.
Occupational therapy and lymphedema
For people living with lymphedema, care for the condition is not just confined to clinical appointments. It becomes part of everyday life. The complexity of lymphedema management shapes how mornings begin, how energy is used throughout the day, and how people participate at home, at work, and in their communities. Research shows that lymphedema affects not only physical health but also daily functioning, emotional well-being, and quality of life.3,4,5 Occupational therapy focuses on these lived experiences, helping people navigate the practical realities of living with
Lauren Samycia, Tina Do, Rheanna Ramos, and Jordan Chabeniuk are Master of Science in Occupational Therapy students at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. This article grew out of their 2026 capstone project completed in partnership with the Canadian Lymphedema Framework, focused on occupation-centred lymphedema education and resource development.
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lymphedema in ways that feel manageable, therapy addresses fatigue by helping people use functional, and meaningful to them. their energy more effectively. This includes pacOne of the most immediate daily challenges ing activities, balancing demanding and lighter is dealing with compression garments. Putting tasks, and modifying how tasks are done. For these on can take time, effort, and planning. example, sitting during self-care or organizing People often describe struggling with tight frequently used items within easy reach can materials, limited hand strength, or discomfort, reduce physical effort. Skin care is also a conespecially early in the day. Occupational sistent part of daily routines. therapists can help make this process more Preventing complications manageable by introducing assistive tools such as infection requires such as donning frames or rubber grip aids, regular attention, yet mainsuggesting techniques like using a seated taining these habits can position for stability, and breaking the task be challenging in busy or into smaller steps. They may also recommend changing environments. applying garments when swelling is lowest, Occupational therapists such as first thing in the morning, or using support people in materials like silk liners to reduce friction. building routines that These practical adjustments can make routines are realistic and tailored to more sustainable and support consistent their lives. This may include linking use of compression, which is essential for skin care to existing habits or problem-solving effective management.4 barriers that make consistency difficult. Given Fatigue is another common problem that that lymphedema requires ongoing self-manageimpacts those living with lymphedema. It can ment, these strategies are essential.5 affect basic activities such as dressing, cooking, The home environment plays an important Pathways-Mag-Fall-2026-Final2.pdf 10:48 AM or maintaining focus at work. Occupational 1 2026-07-10 role in how manageable daily routines feel.
Occupational therapists assess how home and workspaces are set up and identify ways to reduce effort and support independence. Simple changes such as placing frequently used items at waist level, creating a dedicated space for compression supplies, or sitting when grooming can make daily tasks easier and less tiring. In some cases, larger modifications may be helpful, such as adjusting storage, improving lighting, or organizing work areas to support comfort and efficiency. These changes are not about making a home look different but about making daily life work better for the person living in it. The social and emotional impacts of lymphedema are well documented and can significantly affect participation.4,5 Lymphedema can also influence how people participate socially and professionally. Decisions about clothing, travel, or attending events are often shaped by concerns about
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The capstone project: what we built and why Our University of Alberta occupational therapy capstone project was completed in partnership with the Canadian Lymphedema Framework (CLF) and focused on addressing a gap in accessible, occupationfocused resources for individuals living with lymphedema. Through conversations with the CLF, individuals living with lymphedema and healthcare professionals, we learned that many individuals felt uncertain about symptom management, navigating healthcare systems, and maintaining participation in meaningful daily activities. Existing educational materials were often directed toward healthcare providers and did not always address the practical challenges people face in their everyday lives. In response, we developed a series of evidence-informed resources designed to support selfmanagement, self-advocacy, and occupational participation (figure on the right). These resources are based on current research, occupational therapy perspectives, and, most importantly, the lived experiences of individuals living with lymphedema. Community feedback guided the content and format of the resources, ensuring they were relevant, accessible, and meaningful to the people they were intended to serve. One of the most valuable lessons from this project was recognizing the importance of lived experience in resource development. While research provided the foundation for our work, it was the stories and insights shared by community members that helped us understand the daily realities of living with lymphedema. This project reinforced the unique role occupational therapy can play in supporting individuals with lymphedema. Beyond symptom management, occupational therapists can help people adapt, participate, and engage in the activities that matter most to them. We hope these resources provide readers with practical strategies, increased confidence, and a greater sense of empowerment in managing their condition. More broadly, we hope they contribute to greater awareness of the impact of lymphedema on daily life and the importance of occupation-centered approaches to care and education. Refer to page 24 for some hints and tips from an occupational therapy perspective.
NEW Take Control of Lymphedema
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comfort, visibility of compression garments, or access to supplies. Some people limit activities because of these challenges. Occupational therapy addresses these barriers by helping individuals explore clothing options that support both comfort and confidence, plan ahead for travel, and adapt work environments when needed. Many people are not aware that occupational therapy can support lymphedema care in these ways. In many cases, private health benefit plans include coverage for occupational therapy services, although coverage can vary by province and individual plans. This means individuals may already have access to support but may not realize how occupational therapy can help. By focusing on daily routines, environments, and personal priorities, occupational therapy helps connect clinical care with real life. It supports people in managing lymphedema
in ways that are practical, sustainable, and meaningful, making it an important part of comprehensive lymphedema care. What this means for you
If you are a patient or caregiver, consider exploring occupational therapy options in your area when daily tasks become more difficult, exhausting, or frustrating to navigate. You do not need to wait until your problems become severe. Having conversations early can support symptom changes with practical strategies for your environment, activities, or routines. Talk to your healthcare providers about whether an occupational therapy assessment could help address the challenges you are facing when managing lymphedema. For healthcare providers, occupational therapy can be a valuable referral at any point in a patient’s experience with lymphedema,
especially if there are reported difficulties with managing self-care, adapting to functional changes, or achieving personal goals. As part of a collaborative healthcare team, occupational therapists can be integrated proactively to support participation, rather than being introduced only after significant functional decline has occurred. The impacts of lymphedema can be felt across many areas of life and accessing care that advocates for your needs and prioritizes quality of life can support a greater sense of confidence and control over what matters most to you. Occupational therapy contributes a complementary focus that helps you continue to participate in activities and roles that bring purpose, connection, and fulfillment into your life. LP References can be found at https:// canadalymph.ca/pathways/all-issues
How to cite: Samycia, L., Do, T., Ramos, R. and Chabeniuk, J. Pathways. 2026;15(4): 18-21. https://doi.org/10.70472/ZEPZ6136
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Resources for Lymphedema
Lymphedema Education Pamphlet
What Healthcare Professionals Need to Know
Lymphedema Learning Library
LLL: Introduction to Lymphedema
tinyurl.com/2024LymphEd
tinyurl.com/PhysiciansCard
tinyurl.com/LymphLearningLibrary
www.tinyurl.com/LE-Articles
Connect with us Visit our website canadalymph.ca to learn about our mission, vision, and the work we do in partnership with our provincial lymphedema organizations and the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF). Subscribe to our email news and follow us on our social media channels for news, announcements and the latest on lymphedema research, education, partnerships, and events.
Scan to find and follow the CLF online
@canadalymph.ca
Canadian Provincial Lymphedema Associations There are 8 provincial lymphedema associations across Canada that can connect you with local resources in your area. tinyurl.com/ProvincialAssociations
Lymphedema + Chronic Edema Management Microcourse for Health professionals Self-paced over 6 weeks Online Course, 4 Modules 35 education hours Learn from leading experts Course Fee: $350 CAD tinyurl.com/uabmicrocourse
Subscribe to Pathways Quarterly publication by the CLF Up-to-date clinical perspectives Research news Patient hints & tips Written by leading experts For professionals and patients canadalymph.ca/pathways