Lymphedema Therapy

OVERVIEW OF LYMPHEDEMA

Lymphedema (abbreviated as LE) occurs as a result of damage to or structural problems within the lymphatic system. Because the normal flow of lymphatic fluid in the affected area is damaged, the lymphatic flow is blocked or impeded, and swelling occurs. Lymphedema may be a consequence of surgery or trauma. Sometimes people develop LE due to a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system, and sometimes it can develop for no known reason.

We commonly see LE in women after they have had breast surgery or gynecological cancers. In fact, while it may not appear immediately, it is not uncommon for women who have had treatment for breast or gynecological cancer to develop LE following their treatment. People who have had colon, prostate, or testicular cancer are also at a higher risk for developing LE and are good candidates for intervention by a certified lymphedema therapist.

Most of the techniques used for LE treatment are also quite helpful for people with other problems, such as foot and leg swelling as a result of chronic venous insufficiency, edema following surgery or trauma, or the swelling that occurs when people experience problems with wound healing. LE is more than a cosmetic problem. Without proper treatment LE can render a limb virtually useless due to swelling and discomfort and can make it more vulnerable to infection. That is why treatment is so important.

LYMPHEDEMA THERAPY

Proper treatment of LE requires a specifically trained therapist. Our certified lymphedema specialists have received a minimum of 135 of training. This extensive training is revealed in the skills, knowledge, and compassion brought to each and every treatment session with each patient we see. The certified lymphedema specialists at Rehabilitation Associates, Inc. provide a comprehensive treatment program that can reduce swelling, assist in the restoration of proper skin integrity, and – most importantly – enable the person being treated to continue to manage their lymphedema at home. This is done using a method called ‘Complete/Complex Decongestive Therapy’ which consists of:

1. Manual lymphatic drainage- a specific “hands-on” technique to manually move the stagnant fluid so it is returned to the normal lymphatic circulation.
2. Proper skin care.
3. Compression bandaging and the fitting of custom garments.
4. Decongestive exercises.
5. Instruction of the client on how to carry out the necessary steps at home to control and manage their LE on an ongoing basis.

When we see a client with LE at Rehabilitation Associates, Inc. we evaluate the condition and work with the person being seen to establish goals and develop a realistic treatment program. Throughout the treatment process clients are instructed in the “what, how and why” of their treatment. By understanding the principles and techniques involved in treatment, clients are empowered to take an active role in their recovery and long-term self-management.