Exercise does NOT increase lymphoedema

The 3rd in the series of announcements from SMA:

Despite all the fear mongering, there is no evidence that exercise increases or causes lymphoedema. There is no evidence that lifting weights increases or causes lymphoedema. There is no evidence that HEAVY weight lifting increases or causes lymphoedema. There is, however, plenty of evidence that exercise helps lymphoedema and all other aspects of recovery.

Now, while I'm on this subject, let me pass on some tips during weight lifting if you have lymphoedema that the Lymph Nurses and Physio association based on to me (though I would include them amongst the "fear mongers")

• don't grip the weights tightly--use the minimum grip needed to hold the weight
• don't squeeze your fist at any point (for example if doing boxing, hold the fist with the minimum clench)
• breath regularly to help upkeep circulation--never hold your breath in exertion (this is called the Valsalva maneuver) 
• and not lymphoedema related, but spread out your fingers when doing pushups or what have you may help with wrist pain