Lymphodema and Hamstring Pain

Question

Dear TAI Experts:

As a part of surgery to remove a melanoma, the lymph nodes were removed in the thigh (to the groin). As a result I have lymphedoema of the leg, which is relieved by elevating the leg each evening. However, with the lymphedoema, my hamstring muscle is constantly tender and painful – is there a correlation between the lymphedoema and the muscle spasm of the hamstring, and if so, what can I do to relieve the pain? The hamstring is the painful part, not the lymphedoema.

Answer

Without doing an examination I cannot comment on your specific condition, but I can make some general comments. Lymphodema is not typically a painful condition. Often there is a feeling of “fullness,” but it does not usually cause specific muscle pain or spasm. It is possible that the muscle pain and spasm in the hamstrings could be from a muscle strain or prolonged stretch due to the position you are putting your leg in to elevate for reducing the lymphodema. I recommend you see a physical therapist who specializes in lymphodema treatment, or your physician for further evaluation.

Amy Temes, PT, DPT