Sheila, I understand your problem.  I've battled lymphedema for the last 3 years.  Here is a link to some FAQ to help you better understand what is is and what you can do to help prevent it.  What I suggest is inquiring for a PT who specializes in lymphedema that can teach you the techniques of massaging the area to help the fluid flow out of your arm.  It's a light "feathering" technique.  You can also request a fitted compression sleeve - and if that does not help you canask your doctor to rx a pneumatic compression pump that will do the job.  They are available through a durable medical supply company and your insurance should cover most if not all of the cost for it.   In addition to learning how to do it yourself you can also take a nerf football, put it under your arm, and squeeze or pump for 3 reps of 10 each.  Yoga bands are also an excellent tool to help exercise your arm.  As PJ mentioned, lymphedema is covered under the federal act if you had a mastectomy - but since you didn't I would talk with both your insurance and doctor to see about negotiating a discount rate. Many are willing to do that for women without insurance or ones who's insurance is limited such as yours. You may also qualify for health insurance under your state's Medicaid program or other health-coverage programs for low- and moderate-income individuals - so you might also want to try that.   I hope you can get some help and get the lymphedema under control!  Good luck! Angi