Every October, Dubai turns a little pink. Ribbons appear at school gates and office receptions, friends sign up for charity walks, and conversations about breast cancer that often stay private get spoken out loud. For many women in Dubai Hills and beyond, Pink October is also personal: a reminder of their own treatment, or of a mother, sister or friend who has been through it.
Among the many things people tell us after breast cancer treatment, one comes up again and again: “My arm feels heavy, and my rings and sleeves are tighter than they used to be.” If that sounds familiar, you are not imagining it, and you are not alone. It may be lymphoedema, and there is a lot that can be done to manage it. In this post we explain, in plain words, what lymphoedema is, why reporting it early matters, and how lymphatic drainage and physiotherapy can help alongside your oncology team.
What lymphoedema is, in plain words
Your lymphatic system is a network of thin vessels and small glands, called lymph nodes, that carries extra fluid from your tissues back into your bloodstream. It works quietly in the background, a bit like the drainage system of a house.
Breast cancer treatment sometimes involves removing lymph nodes from the armpit, or giving radiotherapy to that area. Both are important parts of treatment, but they can reduce how well fluid drains from the arm, hand, breast or chest wall on that side. When fluid builds up faster than it can drain away, the result is swelling called lymphoedema.
Not everyone develops it. It can appear within weeks of treatment, or months and even years later. Common early signs include:
- a feeling of heaviness, fullness or tightness in the arm;
- rings, watches or bracelets that feel tighter than usual;
- sleeves that feel snug on one side, or a bra strap leaving a deeper mark;
- swelling in the hand, arm, breast, chest wall or armpit area;
- aching, or skin that feels thicker or firmer than before.
Why reporting it early matters
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition, but early lymphoedema is often softer and easier to manage than swelling that has been there for a long time. Over months, fluid that sits in the tissues can make the skin and the tissue underneath firmer and thicker, which takes more work to improve.
That is why we encourage you to mention any change as soon as you notice it, even if it seems small, and even if you feel you have already asked your medical team enough questions. You are not being a nuisance. Many people find it helpful to take a quick photo of both arms, or measure around the same spot on each arm with a tape measure, so they can see any change over time.
How decongestive therapy helps
The usual approach to lymphoedema is called decongestive therapy. It combines several parts that work together, and the balance is tailored to you.
Manual lymphatic drainage. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a hands-on technique that uses slow, rhythmic strokes to stretch the skin and encourage fluid towards lymph nodes that are working well. It is not a deep massage and it should not hurt. Many people find it very relaxing. At KINETIKA, manual lymphatic drainage is with Katrine Gayle Ignacio, our massage therapist.
Compression. Compression, through special bandaging or a fitted garment such as a sleeve and glove, helps stop fluid building up again after it has moved. Getting the right fit and pressure matters, so garments should be measured and reviewed, especially if your arm size changes.
Skin care. Swollen skin is more prone to infection. Keeping skin clean and well moisturised, protecting your hands while gardening or cooking, and treating small cuts, scratches or insect bites promptly all help lower that risk.
Exercise. Muscles act like a pump for the lymphatic system. Regular movement, especially while wearing compression, helps fluid move. Research over recent years has also shown that a gradual, supervised strength programme is generally safe for people with or at risk of lymphoedema, and it can help you feel stronger and more confident in everyday life.
We also teach simple self-drainage and home routines, so you are not relying on clinic visits and can look after your arm between appointments.
Working with your oncology team
We see physiotherapy as one part of your wider care. Before starting treatment, we ask about your diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy and any ongoing treatment, and we check for signs that need medical review first. With your permission, we are happy to keep your oncologist or breast surgeon informed and to work within their guidance.
A first visit usually includes a conversation about your history and how the swelling affects your day, a look at your skin and tissue, careful measurements of both arms so progress can be tracked objectively, and a clear plan. We explain what each step is for and move at your pace.
We understand that this can feel very personal. Your lymphatic drainage sessions are with Katrine, in a private room, and you are welcome to bring someone with you. You can read more about our wider women’s health physiotherapy in Dubai Hills.
When to see a doctor
Some changes need medical attention quickly rather than a physiotherapy appointment. Please contact your doctor or go to an emergency department straight away if you notice:
- an arm that becomes red, hot, swollen or painful, especially with a fever, chills or feeling unwell, which can be a sign of an infection called cellulitis;
- sudden swelling, or sudden pain, in the arm or hand;
- new swelling anywhere if you have a history of cancer, so that your medical team can check the cause.
If we notice any of these signs during an assessment, we will pause treatment and help you get the right care first.
Frequently asked questions
Can lymphoedema go away completely?
Lymphoedema is usually a long-term condition. With the right combination of drainage, compression, skin care and exercise, many people manage it well, reduce the swelling and get on with the things they enjoy.
Is manual lymphatic drainage safe after cancer?
For most people, yes, when it is done by a trained therapist after proper screening. We always check your medical history first and, where needed, speak to your oncology team before we begin.
Should I stop using my arm to protect it?
No. Regular movement and, over time, a gradual strength programme are generally helpful. The key is to build up slowly and watch how your arm responds.
Can I fly or travel with lymphoedema?
Many people travel without problems. Ask your physiotherapist or medical team whether wearing your compression garment during flights is right for you, and move your arm regularly on long journeys.
If your arm feels heavy or your sleeves feel tighter since treatment, you do not have to wait and wonder. We are at Park Heights Square 1, Dubai Hills, and we would be glad to listen and help you plan the next step. Book an assessment
