PIP for Lymphoedema - Can You Claim?

Lymphoedema - chronic swelling caused by a faulty lymphatic system, often after cancer treatment or surgery - affects daily life far more than most people realise. The weight of a swollen limb, the skin care regime, the compression garments, and the risk of cellulitis all impact PIP activities significantly.

Which PIP Activities Does Lymphoedema Affect?

Managing Therapy (Activity 3) - This is often the highest-scoring activity. Lymphoedema requires intensive daily management: compression garments (putting on and taking off - often needing help), manual lymphatic drainage (self-massage 20-30 minutes daily), skin care routine (washing, drying, moisturising affected areas thoroughly), exercise programme, and regular lymphoedema clinic appointments. If you have a lymphoedema pump, add the time for that too. Total daily therapy time is typically 60-90 minutes.

Dressing and Undressing (Activity 6) - Compression garments are extremely difficult to put on. Class 2 and 3 compression stockings require significant hand strength and dexterity. Many people need a donning aid or help from another person. If your arm is affected, putting on compression sleeves while also managing clothing is a major challenge. This regularly scores 2-4 points.

Washing and Bathing (Activity 4) - Skin must be washed carefully to prevent infection. A swollen limb is heavy and difficult to lift for washing. Drying thoroughly between skin folds is essential to prevent fungal infections. Moisturising is a daily requirement. The whole process takes much longer than for someone without lymphoedema.

Moving Around (Activity 12) - A leg swollen with lymphoedema is heavy. Walking distance is reduced by the weight, pain, and fatigue. Many people need walking aids. If you can't walk 50 metres reliably because of the swelling, you qualify for mobility component.

Preparing Food (Activity 1) - Arm lymphoedema affects grip strength and the ability to lift pans. Leg lymphoedema limits standing time. Both cause fatigue that makes cooking difficult.

Cellulitis Episodes

Lymphoedema significantly increases the risk of cellulitis (skin infection). Cellulitis episodes require antibiotics, sometimes hospitalisation, and can leave you bedbound for days. If you have recurring cellulitis, describe the frequency and impact: "I have had 4 episodes of cellulitis in the last 12 months. Each episode requires 14 days of antibiotics and leaves me unable to walk, wash, or care for myself for 5-7 days."

What Evidence Helps?

• Lymphoedema nurse or therapist letters
• Measurement records showing limb circumference
• Compression garment prescriptions
• Cellulitis episode records
• Photos showing the swelling
• Partner or carer statement describing daily management help