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Does computer work affect lymphedema?

Page last modified on: August 25, 2008

Question from Georgia: I use the computer for 99% of my work day. Will this affect my arm?: Answers —Jennifer Sabol, M.D., F.A.C.S.: It's sort of like using a computer and the development of carpal tunnel – some people will develop carpal tunnel but some people will not. Only time and trial and error will tell you if you're going to develop lymphedema in that situation. I think my only suggestion would be to make sure your work station is ergonometrically (physically safely) positioned – the seating and desktop area.; Nicole Gergich, M.P.T., C.L.T.-L.A.N.A. : Again, if you are someone who's been using their computer for 99% of your work day for years and years, your arm is probably in tune with that level of activity.

On Wednesday, April 16, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Preventing and Treating Arm Lymphedema. Kathryn Schmitz, Ph.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S.M.,Nicole Stout Gergich, M.P.T. C.L.T.-L.A.N.A., and moderator Jennifer Sabol, M.D., F.A.S.C. answered your questions about ways to prevent and manage lymphedema.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Kathryn Schmitz, Ph.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.S.M. is assistant professor in the Division of Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania and adjunct associate professor in the Division of Epidemiology at the University of Minnesota.

Nicole Stout Gergich, M.P.T., C.L.T.-L.A.N.A.

Nicole Stout Gergich M.P.T., C.L.T.-L.A.N.A. is a physical therapist and lymphedema specialist at the Breast Care Center at the National Naval Medical Center. She is also the president of the Oncology Section of the American Physical Therapy Association, and has previously served on the Medical Advisory Board and research committee for the National Lymphedema Network.

Jennifer Sabol, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a breast surgeon who directs the newly developed Breast Care Center at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, Pa. Among her many interests, Dr. Sabol spearheads several research initiatives to advance the care for women with breast cancer and improve methods of breast cancer detection and treatment.