Health Matters 5/21: Rehabilitation Can Help Patients Cope With Lymphedema By Kelly Gray, PT The lymphatic system is a major part of your body’s immune system, helping to fight infection and keep you healthy. On occasion, you might experience swollen lymph nodes when your system is combatting illness, but otherwise you likely don’t even know that your lymphatic system is working. However, when the system is interrupted or damaged, a type of swelling called lymphedema can occur. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms and put you at risk for other serious health complications. The certified lymphedema therapists in the Lymphedema Management Program at Princeton Rehabilitation, a program of Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center, offer one-on-one treatment for individuals dealing with the condition.