Let me make clear that this has not been a constant problem for 7 years ! Initially right after I finished radiation it got pretty bad and very painful. After I did lymphedema clinic it got much better very quickly. I have flare ups especially when I over use my arm as in yard work etc. I would say that I go weeks w/o any problems at all and then there will be a spell of discomfort but nothing like I experienced at first. Have learned to notice symptoms early on and get back to self massage and using my lymphepress machine. Usually clears up again in a day or so. BTW my insurance covered most of the expense for my machine. BCBS You might look in to that. Has been a life saver for me. Takes about an hour and I usually go to sleep, lol