If you have lymphedema or are at risk for lymphedema, here are some tips for you to help avoid triggering lymphedema flare-ups or skin infections while you garden. When gardening, it’s best to prevent the following:
Bug bites
Insects may have venom that will close down the local lymphatic routes so not to spread the venom. This may result in a swelling that might affect the entire limb. Other insect bites initiate an allergic response that causes an increase in inflammation and will add to the lymphatic load, meaning there will be more fluid that the body needs to move and this could overwhelm a deficient lymphatic system. Insect bites might be itchy and if scratched an infection could result, this is further damage to any existing healthy lymphatic vessels. Wearing long sleeves tops and pants or using repellents may help you avoid bites and stings.
Bacteria in soil
There is good and bad bacteria in soil and fertilizers. Wearing gardening gloves will help minimize the risk of infections.
Sun burn
Wear sun protective clothing or SPF lotion as sun burns can lead to inflammation for the lymphatic system. Pain will also slow down the flow of lymph.
Heavy lifting
Avoid lifting heavy items, like large rocks or heavy boxes of tools or planters. When you lift a heavy object, you are doing a sustained muscle contraction to hold the weight. This is different than lifting weights at the gym with movement, which is beneficial for lymphedema. Muscle pumping, contract and relax is what is needed to pump lymph forward. Sustained muscle contractions with a heavy weight added (i.e. the rock) squeeze the lymph vessels but keeps the lymph vessels closed and prevents it from pumping lymph in a forward direction. If anything, the build up of pressure might even cause it to back flow. Get assistance to move heavy items or make more trips with very small loads.
Scrapes and cuts
Using gloves and long sleeves may prevent scrapes and cuts which on their own can cause an infection of the skin.
Repetitive strain
Certain tools or activities may cause repetitive sprain. You may want to start gardening activities with a warm up or stretching. Use good body mechanics and posture and ergonomic tools. Avoid one handed work with the affected limb and remember to take breaks.
Gardening can be very beneficial for your health. Worrying about getting lymphedema while gardening will counteract all of the health benefits of the activity you love. Take precautions where needed and if something concerning should happen, book an appointment with our lymphedema therapist for treatment.
Denise Drisdelle is a registered massage therapist and co-founder of FLOW Lymphatic Health Services.