Using a Pneumatic Pump for Lipedema and Lymphedema

Can pneumatic pumps help #lipedema and #lymphedema symptoms? Maybe you are wondering how to use your Flexitouch pump? Or if the Flexitouch Plus works? Rebekah demonstrates how she puts on her Flexitouch Plus from Tactile Medical and describes some of the success she has had using it for the past three years. Her doctor prescribed the pneumatic pump for lymphedema after her diagnosis in March 2020 to help reduce swelling in her legs and simulate manual lymphatic drainage massage. Since then, Rebekah has lost 140 pounds, regained her mobility, and reclaimed her life. The pneumatic pump is just one of the conservative treatment tools she uses to manage her lymphedema and lipedema naturally. Subscribe to the channel for more or visit www.SturdyWoman.com
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Lounge Doctor Leg Wedge: amzn.to/45SNk4N

[@1019lms]

I just got approved by my insurance for a pump! It will be at my house by tomorrow! SO excited!! 😆

[@sturdywoman]

@1019lms wahooo! How is it going so far? Are you running to the bathroom as soon as it switches off? It's a learning curve so be patient :D

[@1019lms]

I’m actually traveling for work. As soon as I get home, I have an appointment arranged with the rep who will show me how to use it.

[@gloriagross8120]

I have the Tactile Medical machine and garments that looks exactly like yours, except it also has zippers along with the velcro. This demonstration of yours was so utterly helpful, I cannot believe it. My husband usually helps me into and out of my garments, but in a pinch you've given me some really good ideas. Thank you so much. I'm so glad I found you.

[@bettyboop1003]

Question is yours working for you ?

[@donnajones9006]

I have an older version but it works the same. Yours seems easier to get on

[@sturdywoman]

Those of you with garment questions, I have successfully gotten new garments for free multiple times. Most recently, a year ago mine started leaking and stopped working so they sent me the new type with the zippers. Have to admit, I'm still getting used to them! I'm not sure they are easier 😬

[@kamwatson6128]

Thank you Rebekah for your new upload.. In UK you cannot get this machine on prescription as it costs so much so I have purchased leg pheumatic pump from Amazon but I haven't used it yet but will update you.. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and updating us with useful information and tips, bless you.. Look forward to your next upload x💋😇😘

[@sturdywoman]

Thank you, Kam! Keep us posted about your machine when it arrives. I'm sure it is much more affordable than this one!

[@1969strangelove]

I live in UK too

[@kamwatson6128]

@@1969strangelove so Cherry I brought my leg pheumatic pump from Amazon, it cost me £60..💋

[@1969strangelove]

@@kamwatson6128 could you please give me the exact name? I’d like to look into it too. Thank you 🌸

[@kamwatson6128]

​@@1969strangelove hi x Its just a normal leg pheumatic pump. Massager for Circulation - Foot and Calf Massager, Air Compression Leg Wraps Massage Boots Machine for Home Use Leg Massage - scd Machine for Calf, Thigh and Foot. Company name Invaspa

[@renadawalker5373]

I use this everyday and it makes my bladder full by the time it’s done but it feels great

[@cheryldavis6011]

Thank you so much for your very informative tutorial. I am new to your channel, as I have been devouring everything I can find on the subject since I’ve fairly recently self-diagnosed myself with the condition of lipedema, at the age of 65. Trying to research what is available to help relieve my pain and swelling. Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@sturdywoman]

Welcome, Cheryl, and thank you! I'm glad to heart it has been helpful. I try to focus on the sorts of things I wish I had known when I was starting out. Not even my doctor who diagnosed me could tell me!

[@donnajones9006]

Just got my flexi plus and had the instructor teach me how to use it. It looks complicated and overwhelming but is not once you have instructions. This is my second Flexitouch.

[@chrisdurig-oq6ve]

Thank you for this. I have the tactile medical machine and it's seems so hard to get it put on correctly. This is very helpful and encouraging.

[@sturdywoman]

@chrisdurig-oq6ve stick with it! I cried the first time I unboxed mine in April 2020. COVID had just stared so they weren't doing home visits and all they sent was a DVD. Who has a DVD player these days? Ha! But I figured it out and you'll figure it out and you'll start feeling better.

[@jotheis1]

You make me hopeful in life. You really make a difference I’m sure in many lives. I think you are a blessing from God ❤ thank you ❤

[@brendaharris1960]

Very good advice. I’ll get started tonight. Been looking at mine for 3 weeks. Thank you thank you!

[@lauramiller3987]

I'm having the representative come tomorrow morning to demonstrate the same machine. I think watching you was very helpful. Thank you!

[@sturdywoman]

@lauramiller3987 I'm glad it was helpful! Good luck with your machine. It takes some time to get used to wrangling but can give you a lot of relief with regular use

[@phyllisbooth570]

Thank you for the video. It was very informative. The flexitouch plus is being ordered for me, and I am anxious about putting it on. I found your video at just the right time.

[@sturdywoman]

@phyllisbooth570 how is it going now?! If they didn't send someone out to help you get it set up call and ask for that. It's really helpful and should be free

[@kozenberger161]

I've been doing the trunk and then the legs as trunk is for 15 min, legs is 45 min. I hang the pieces on hooks behind door. Hubby and I have a routine!

[@imahick5723]

Thank you. I have that equipment and have been in tangles with all the hoses. Will try your method

[@ShortyGirlinc]

My rep braided my hoses so they never tangle she used hair ties every few inches ... Yep just unplug and roll up and never get tangled ... Hope that helps

[@pamelasmithson4303]

Wow, this was very helpful! You’ve got it down! Thank you so much!

[@sturdywoman]

You are welcome, @pamelasmithsoon4303! A few weeks they actually sent me different garments with a zipper and, while they are intended to be easier, it's thrown off my whole routine 🤣 I just had to remind myself everything takes time 💕

[@ShortyGirlinc]

My lymphedema therapist actually told me lymphedema ISN'T PAINFUL and when i described my upper chest itchy/tingly she said that's nuero not due to lymphedema ... I started to cry when you mentioned it in your video ... Thank goodness I'm not going crazy ... I am a C-6 Quad so unfortunately i Need some one else to put my garments on ... I have a lot of questions but I'm going to watch some other videos maybe you answered them already ... Thank you for this ... Shorty

[@quimmly]

Very awesome info as always, thanks for all you do

[@sconnielassie]

They approved the tactile one.

[@amyebrown1979]

Okay I got my flexitouch plus a couple years ago and the garments didnt fit my huge legs. I have lost a lot of weight and thought let me try this again. Shorts fit but the upper thighs wont close. I made my 16 year old.daughter help me get into this and we tried to adapt. It sounds like I should contact the company about the bigger garments. And it would be wonderful to have someone get me fitted the first time but your video was great. I am going to use this as a self care hour each night.

[@mariaarce9100]

I just have one for my arm I need one like yours.😮

[@AnchorMoments]

Hi Sturdy Woman! I love your channel! I have watched a few of your videos and bought the vibration plate with your link and love it! yesterday I went to a vein clinic for a free consultation and the doctor prescribed a pump just like yours! Same brand! I had a hysterectomy 5 weeks ago and met my deductible. The doctor thought my insurance would pay for this...will wait and see. Thanks for showing how to use it! Do you see a difference in the size of your legs when you are done? The vein doctor told me I would, and I hope he is right!

[@sturdywoman]

@AnchorMoments I'm so glad things are going well!! If your doctor prescribed the pump then the insurance should cover it, but fingers crossed! I owed a percentage after my insurance and FlexiTouch gave me a 0% interest payment plan for the difference, including the deductible. It definitely helps my swelling. You will know it is working if you are running to the bathroom as soon as you finish :D Using the vibration plate or dry brushing before you pump will loosen everything up and help it work even better. Let us know how it goes!

[@AnchorMoments]

@sturdywoman thank you! My fingers are crossed that I get that machine and my insurance pays for it! I am so glad that it works well for you! Thanks for the tips!

[@helenguilford3136]

What a device! I’m using cheap leg ones from Amazon.

[@sturdywoman]

@helenguilford3136 this one requires a prescription since it's a "durable medical device" but someone like a vein specialist can help get one if your swelling qualifies

[@rebeccahand6158]

You are such an inspiration I just received my pump but now I developed cellulitis on my right leg

[@sturdywoman]

I'm glad to hear you got a pump but so sorry about the cellulitis! I hope you start feeling better soon 💕

[@macgirl1234]

This was so helpful thank you!! I am going to look into this

[@sturdywoman]

I'm so glad to hear that, @macgirl1234! I hope you have success getting one ❤❤

[@EliseWalker-p2x]

Great job!!

[@carolynm4962]

I managed to find a pump and the leg garments on eBay, but cannot seem to find the shorts/trunks to go with it.😢. I found a size small, but I AM DEFINITELY not a small, I really need XL or even 2XL.

[@Cstetson83]

I will be getting this same pump at some point after I start wearing compression. This video was very helpful. Thank you!

[@sturdywoman]

I'm so glad it was helpful, Christina! I found mine really helpful, particularly at the beginning. The first few weeks I was tearing it off to run to the bathroom after each hour-long session and that really told me it was moving the fluid out! They are a super helpful company and I found any time I had a problem they quickly responded. Have you found my other video on compression? That helped me maintain the drainage between pump sessions kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y2mZqnqboMmHhac Good luck and keep us posted💕

[@Cstetson83]

@@sturdywoman I actually just watched your video on compression and that is extremely helpful too. Tactile Medical seems like a wonderful company. A representative came right here to my house to demo the pump and I thought that was great. I appreciate all the information you bring for Lipidema.

[@sturdywoman]

@@Cstetson83 Yes, I've had a great experience with Tactile and am glad you are too. Have you gotten settled in with your pump? I hope it's helping 💕

[@angellollar1083]

If you have history of blood clots in lower leg 20 years ago is this something that I would be able to do? Thank you so much.

[@sturdywoman]

@angellollar1083 the best person to answer that would be a vein specialist. Since this machine requires a prescription you would have to see them anyway. Contraindications are listed on their website here: tactilemedical.com/our-lymphedema-solutions/for-the-lower-body/flexitouch-plus/user-guide/ Good luck!!

[@kzp5249]

Thank you for your video, Can you remove the foot plug as my feet are very tender and it hurts

[@PhoenixBeI]

How often do you do this? Daily? X times per week? Weekly? One per month? Thanks!

[@shellysolomonart]

Do you know if they make a "pants" version? My aunt has the same one but shes old and can't get into it by herself and we can't come everyday to help her and its really effecting her mobility.

[@sturdywoman]

@shellysolomonart have you heard of the Lymphapress? It's the other pump commonly prescribed for lipedema and lymphedema. It's one piece you slip into. You can find a lot of information on their website: www.lymphapress.com/products/lympha-pants They also have a "pod" version for those who can't fit the pants. If your aunt can't use the pump she has on her own, that could be a justification for switching. Big hugs to you and your aunt!

[@shellysolomonart]

@@sturdywoman ok!!! Thank you so much for your help, I saw one similar but this looks exactly like what she needs! Unfortunately her insurance won't let her switch for another 3 years. So we'll likely have to pay out of pocket but at least she'll have something she can manage when no one can come by. I'll show her this video too and see if we can rig up something similar while we look into getting the new machine. Thanks again

[@sconnielassie]

My OT was just sending over an authorization for a pump for me.

[@TheKessatchaas]

Its 430 am in California and i accidentally saw this video. I just got my pump a month ago. Its so hard putting it on.

[@sturdywoman]

Keep at it, Robert Jones! I broke down crying the first time I tried to put it on. It was April 2020 and I was doing it while watching a how-to KZbin video - no one could come train me because of COVID. Ugh. You'll figure it out, though, and if you can use it regularly it will help reduce and control your swelling

[@jw8453]

Do you measure yourself when using this machine or check in with your dr

[@lisat9802]

I am dealing with upper extremity lymphedema, I been elevating the arm that is being treated. Where should I place my head during treatments? I have been sitting up right, but is very uncomfortable to sit like that for the hour needed to pump. thanks in advance for any information on this.

[@lfuentes4098]

Do you know how I can find a good doctor to diagnose and treat Lipedema? I’m in CAand have AnthemBC. Thanks.

[@mazienoring6228]

Vascular Surgeon...diagnosed me.

[@af1966]

Does your tactile brand pump have different cycles? I have a lympha press PCD 52 and it has different therapy cycles precycle and post cycle that I can use.

[@marybeute2838]

I ise this exact one i was wondering how you storecthe legs, i keep minevon the box under my table. I have a cat who loves to chew plastic so i have to keep whetevshe cannot get st it. Live in very small senior housing thinking on getting large plastic tub and lerpong in front coat😅 closet

[@blackcat799]

Do you do it everyday?

[@rachelmiller221]

But the Lymphapress pump only has two plug ins instead of 8 and they zip up on the leg sleeves

[@robertgowdey]

Does it do the feet too?

[@lindajoyce1808]

I also have a flexitouch. I use my every morning before the day starts and as some as treatment is finished the compression hoses come on and then I use the vibrating message gun. I”m a housewife so I have the luxury of morning time. My legs fell their lightest after this. I have the extra space to leave the machine and the hoses attached and place on a spare tv tray stand. The legs are laid out in order for putting on first the shorts, then the right leg and then the left leg. When I take off i do it in reverse. Left, then right (lays on top of the left) the shorts on top ready for the next use. Wondering has anyone taken theirs on an airplane, any issues with TSA or airline . Thanks

[@sturdywoman]

Hi Linda! I'm so glad you are finding yours useful too. It was a god send when my swelling was bad at the beginning. Yes, I have traveled with mine! A couple tips that I should have put in the video... 1) My doctor advised me to carry the console (computer part) has a carry on and check the garments. I foolishly carried it in a duffel rather than a spinner and it got *heavy* though so put it in a rolling bag. 2) Expect to take it out just like a laptop going through security. I had a doctor's note and copy of the owner's manual in case there were questions about what it was. TSA didn't care but the people behind me in line thought it was awesome looking and said they were jealous of all my cool stuff 😆 3) If your doctor gives you a letter that you are traveling with medical equipment, they will waive the checked bag fee. 4) If you need two seats, Southwest will reimburse you for the second ticket you buy after you complete the trip. This will also qualify you for pre-boarding which keeps you from having to stand in line a long time. Look up their "passenger of size" policy. I used it about a year and a half ago and had no problems aside from one ticket person who questioned whether I needed it, which felt like a compliment. I told her I had lost a lot of weight and was nervous about flying again and we both just laughed. 😂 They reimbursed for the second ticket within about a month. Hope this helps! 💕

[@lindajoyce1808]

Yes, thank you for responding.

[@susandonaldson7701]

I bought a large suitcase for my tactile pump. I've been flying first or business class cuz by the time you pay for luggage the cost is about the same. Plus leg room is bigger which is good for lymphodema

[@c.attarian1000]

This is off subject where did you get that bedspread? My mother has always wanted a flamingo bedspread.

[@katella]

Those are peacocks

[@projectqueen610]

There are compression pump devices on amazon that do not require prescription

[@JHabc]

I just realized that I must have been diagnosed many years ago. The diagnosis was not explained to me at all, and I couldn’t make sense of what the vein doctor put in my chart. I went through PT where I was taught to wrap my legs in a series of large wraps that looked like ace bandages. They never stayed on right, and the constriction was very painful. I also used pumps on my legs in the PT office. At the end of it all, I was told to buy compression socks designed for runners. Because my lower legs are so fat, I had to buy the men’s socks. I’m very short. So the feet were huge, and they were too long. They were impossible to put on and agonizing to wear. My blood pooled at my feet and there was a tight band of extra sock at my knees. Then I was given a pump. The guy who owned the DME was offensive when he came to my home and gave completely incorrect information about my insurance coverage. He insisted on dropping it off the night before I left town for several months. When I eventually tried to use it, it was a complete disaster. The legs were mismatched, like difficult styles. They stunk like they were used and were like a sticky blue plastic I couldn’t get into. They were too long and too tight to zipper up. The pump was huge and felt like it weighed 50 pounds. I eventually tried to use it on e. I have a small twin bed and I could not maneuver myself into the legs and onto my bed. When I tried to turn it on, it was excruciatingly painful. I couldn’t bring myself to try again and was infuriated when I received a huge bill. When I moved, I dumped the entire thing back at the office it was delivered from and was just as horrified by the guy who ran the place. I stopped using the socks after a short time because they hurt worse than not wearing them. I had been on a high dose of prednisone for a year when I was diagnosed, and the swelling and pain I was trying to get treatment for eventually went down after I stopped taking it. I assumed the diagnosis was wrong and it was just the effects of the prednisone. I still have many of the symptoms you mentioned in another video, but I can not tolerate compression at all. Like I barely ever wear socks because they hurt. If I have to wear socks, they are the low elastic diabetic type. I have no idea what the answer is. I lost a significant amount of weight before my diabetes was diagnosed, and that has helped. I’m living in rural Canada now and have no idea what it would take to see someone here.

[@cynthiaknox2131]

I'm new to your channel and was wondering whether you take Diosmin anti inflammation medication?

[@sturdywoman]

Hi Cynthia! I don't currently take Diosmin but I did most of the first year of my diagnosis. My vein doctor told me that was one of the few supplements worth spending money on. It can be helpful for those of us with vein problems but there are contraindications so be sure to talk to you doctor. This might be helpful too lipedemaitalia.info/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/medicine-and-supplement-for-people-with-lipedema-and-DD-Herbst.pdf I only stopped taking it because I got a bad batch that upset my stomach.

[@barbaraferron7994]

I have just a boot. The pump is internal. It has an auto shut off preset for 15 minutes. I have chronc fatigue and trouble reaching my feet. I worry about how I would deal wth the phone ringing or someone at the door. I stopped using it because of these issues.

[@sturdywoman]

@barbaraferron7994 I hear you on being immobilized by it! I just figure whoever is knocking or calling can come back after I've had my all important me time :D

[@Researchonly88]

How tall is your doctor lounge pillow?

[@sturdywoman]

Hi @Researchonly88! It's 12.5 inches tall. You can see the full information here: amzn.to/3U1olrO

[@Researchonly88]

@@sturdywoman thank you! This brand truly has higher elevation. Just propping with pillows doesn’t feel supportive enough when I’m pumping. Just got mine too. I love your journey and your content. Thank you for sharing!

[@jackiemorrison2661]

How often do you use it? Daily?

[@sturdywoman]

@jackiemorrison2661 I started out in the extended size garments that can only do one leg at a time, so I did it on one leg in the morning and on the other one in the evening. Now that I've lost weight I can wear the standard garments that do both legs at the same time. For the first few years I used it daily, but now that my swelling has improved so much I now use it "as needed." Even when I got it, my vein doctor said "You'll know when you don't need it anymore." My marker is usually if I have to jump up and pee as soon as it is done. If I do, then I had some fluid to drain and should use it for a few more days. If I don't, then I'm probably in a good place. That said, if I come back from a long plane trip, I always jump right in... and I'm always swollen. I hope that makes sense!

[@splott8]

Do you think this would be good for restless leg syndrome?

[@PhoenixBeI]

I use cannabis. It works like a charm. I'm lucky to live in California and was able to consume it legally, first as medicinal and now recreational... better say, without having to go through the hassle of dealing with a doctor. If you have access to medicinal cannabis, try it. I'm also wondering if RLS and lipedema work together. It's clear that I'm not the only one with both problems. :)

[@conniecholensky6457]

How do you get this for lipedema? Can your regular Dr subscribe it? So an excuse for a nap? I’m okay with that lol and where is the blanket? But they tried to wrap me somewhere and I hated it! I use the massage chair and hydro at the gym and they help some but think looks like it would help swelling so much

[@doloresdanavage9156]

How much does the lymphedema pump cost

[@sturdywoman]

@doloresdanavage9156 I paid about $1,000 for mine after insurance. I had a $750 deductible and they paid something like 90% of the cost so without insurance I think they run around $10,000. Keep in mind it's "durable medical equipment" so it's a different sort of thing and you can only get one with a prescription, although people also sell them used on eBay. There is another popular model called the LymphaPress. If you contact the companies directly (or ask your doctor to) they sometimes offer financial assistance programs. For my $1,000 Tactile gave me an interest free payment plan and I paid about $40 a month for two years. Good luck! ❤

[@bettyboop1003]

Question how long have you been using yours ? And did it worked for you how much swelling if you can measure it ? Thank you in advance

[@Cezzlina]

I’m lucky enough to have the LymphaPress Pants which is so much easier to use than this (although I suspect a little noisier). Really enjoying your channel- thank you :)

[@sturdywoman]

Hi Cezzlina! It's great to hear your pump is working well for you. It can make such a difference! I've always wondered if the Lympha Press pants are easy to travel with. Can you fold them? I've traveled with my Flexitouch and was able to fit it in a carry-on. Glad you are enjoying the channel

[@Cezzlina]

I’ve never travelled with them, although I have seen a video with a lady showing how she packs her LymphaPress pants for travel.

[@daisyking1117]

I was just dx with lymphedema and have been told insurance (Medicare doesn’t cover equipment and it’s very costly . How did you get the insurance to cover your machine ? How advanced do you have to be in order to get the machine? I have the reduction garments and they cost me five hundred dollars. I need some guidance as to how to get supplies thx

[@sturdywoman]

I Daisy! I'm sorry to hear you are facing challenges getting a pump and other supplies. I'm actually in the process of trying to get a new pump myself (the one you see me using in the video just broke!). I had Aetna insurance at the time I got it and it was a relatively good plan - paid for close to 90% after my deductible. Many doctors don't know exactly how to prescribe these machine and work with the insurance, but they have useful guides on their websites. For example here is Tactile tactilemedical.com/clinicians/health-plan-reimbursements/ and there is also Lympha Press lymphapress.com/faq/ My new doctor wants to help me, but doesn't know what to do and we've found the website resources very helpful. You may also want to reach out to the companies directly yourself through the email addresses. They make a lot of money off the machines so it's worth their time to help you figure out how to get one. Good luck!! ❤❤

[@daisyking1117]

@@sturdywoman Thank you for the information

[@Kiki-wi7px]

Medicare will Qualify you IF you Pass the "4" Requirement's. Help's as well if you have a Secondary Insurance when Dealing with Insurance's and Dealing with Medical Issue's. Insurance Will Cover for Compression Stocking's IF you are On a Pump. If you Do NOT have a Pump, They Won't Be Covered.

[@joycepringle9726]

Would these pumps b safe to use if u have an enlarged heart n congested heart failure ?

[@sturdywoman]

Hi Joyce! That's definitely something to discuss with your doctor. This pump and the Lympha Press (the other one commonly used for these conditions) both require a prescription. I'd discuss that with him/her when you go in to try to get a prescription ♥

[@joycepringle9726]

I have the pumps already n the Drs. Will not give me a yes or no on using them, so I had to make a decision to stop.Unforunately there is no Drs. In our area that really know much about the lymphedema.I know pt here wraps 1 leg at a time as both being wrapped is too much fluid going to the heart So...???

[@sturdywoman]

@@joycepringle9726 sorry that I didn't see this note earlier. I hope you got things figured out! I think you are probably onto something with the one leg at a time piece. When I first started I had to use the extended size garments and those only allow you to treat one leg at a time, probably because of the too much fluid thing you suggest above. If you continue having trouble getting answers from your doctor, you might try calling the pump company directly. I would hope they can tell you about contraindications for their equipment. Big hugs ❤❤

[@rashida7777]

Does insurance pay for this?

[@lulafields4019]

I have the Tactile medical machine

[@kathleenthomas1971]

this is a very time consuming disease. you probably cant really hold down a job! it takes a lot of patience and diligence

[@sturdywoman]

It is very time consuming! You're right, @kathleenthomas1971. In some ways I was lucky to be diagnosed just days before the COVID quarantine in the United States so I immediately had time savings from my commute, etc. that could be diverted to tasks like this. I'm lucky to have continued working from home the past three years which has made my self-care and keto lifestyle a lot easier to maintain. Sending big hugs ❤❤

[@heidihanshaw5361]

Thanks 😊 🫂 🙏 😊 thanks

[@af1966]

It takes a lot to manage it but you can wear your compression stockings all the time and that helps immensely. Then when you're home and you have time you can use a lymphedema pump. I use mine for 1 hour at night and I sit there and watch TV while it's doing its job. So it might seem to be a lot of time and very daunting but I don't find it that way to be.