Lymphedema can be the result of genetics, but in most cases it comes from various injuries or infections that affect the lymphatic system and cause it to operate ineffectively. In either case, the patient experiences often painful swelling.
Some patients also have edema (swelling) in the arms, wrists and fingers. Compression is accomplished with wraps, sometimes called compression garments that serves to give support to the muscles in the affected area and causes them to move lymph fluid out of that area. By preventing fluid build-up, the patient experiences a decrease in pain and discomfort.