Swelling (medical term: edema) is the enlargement of a limb or body part caused by an abnormal buildup of lymphatic fluid in the tissues. It usually starts mild and worsens over time, and tends to feel heavy or tight rather than painful.

Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection that appears as a sharply defined, red, warm, rapidly spreading rash, often with fever. People with lymphatic dysfunction are especially prone to repeated episodes because impaired lymph flow makes it harder for the body to clear bacteria from the skin.

Leg pain in lymphatic dysfunction often presents as a dull ache or feeling of heaviness that worsens with standing or walking. It results from excess fluid pressing on the muscles, nerves, and joints of the swollen limb.

As fluid accumulates around a joint such as the knee or ankle, the surrounding tissue tightens and restricts normal movement. This can cause stiffness, aching, and a reduced range of motion in the affected joint.