How Lymphedema Therapy Can Help with Swelling
- 4 minute read.
- Last Updated: 6/18/2026
Persistent swelling can slow your routine and affect your daily life, and hot weather often makes it worse. At Covenant Health, our therapy teams help patients manage swelling and find relief with simple, proven treatments close to home.
What Is Edema?
When temperatures rise, your blood vessels expand. Your body does this to cool itself, but it can also let fluid move into nearby tissue. This is when you notice swelling in your feet, ankles, hands or legs.
This type of swelling is called edema. It is often temporary, but it can also be a sign of a larger issue when it does not improve.
“Heat can make fluid build up faster,” says Marie Brannen, OTR/L, CLT-ALM, certified lymphedema therapist with Covenant Health Therapy Centers. “If swelling does not improve with rest, it’s important to have it evaluated.”
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Anyone can experience swelling in the summer, but some people are more likely to develop it:
- Pregnant women: Extra fluid and pressure on veins can cause swelling
- People with diabetes: Poor circulation can make swelling worse
- Patients with lymphedema: A chronic condition where fluid collects due to lymph system damage
- Older adults: Circulation naturally slows with age, making it easier for fluid to build up
- Those with heart or kidney issues: The body may not move fluid as easily
- People who sit or stand for long periods: Limited movement can cause fluid to build up
- Individuals recovering from surgery and cosmetic procedures: Healing tissues can contribute to temporary swelling
Knowing your risk helps you take simple steps to stay comfortable.
What Is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is different from everyday swelling: it is a long-term condition. It happens when the lymph system cannot move fluid the way it should. This can occur after surgery, cancer treatment or injury.
Without treatment, lymphedema can get worse over time.
How Lymphedema Therapy Helps Both Edema and Lymphedema
At Covenant Health, lymphedema therapy focuses on reducing swelling and helping you move with ease. Our physical therapists are specially trained to treat both edema and lymphedema.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle, manual therapy to help move fluid
- Compression garments to prevent fluid buildup
- Exercise plans to improve circulation
- Skin care to prevent infection
- Integrative medicine strategies, including sleep, stress management, movement, nutrition and community support
“Our goal is to give patients control again,” shares Marie. “We focus on what they can do every day to stay comfortable, even in the heat.”
Our therapists work one-on-one with each patient. Every plan is tailored to fit personal needs and daily routines.
Simple Ways to Reduce Swelling In Summer
Daily habits matter, especially in warm weather. These simple steps can support your progress:
- Drink plenty of water
- Elevate your legs when resting
- Take breaks to move and stretch
- Wear loose, breathable clothing
- Stay cool when possible
“These small changes can help limit swelling before it starts,” says Marie. “They work best when paired with a therapy plan.”
Convenient Care You Can Trust
You don’t have to manage swelling on your own. Covenant Health offers convenient access to expert therapy services across our region.
“Many people think swelling is something they have to live with, but that’s not true,” explains Marie. “Therapy can help reduce swelling and protect your health.”
We focus on care that is:
- Easy to schedule
- Close to home
- Personalized to your needs
- Connected to your full care team
Swelling is common, but ongoing swelling is not something to ignore. Early therapy support can help prevent bigger problems and improve how you feel day to day.
You can start therapy without a physician referral. Learn more about Covenant Health therapy services, find a location near you and take the next step in your care journey by self-referring today.
