Lymphedema Therapy Program

Our certified Lymphedema Therapists provide a complete decongestive treatment approach for people suffering from lymphedema. This involves a specialized massage technique called manual lymph drainage (MLD), skin and nail care, compression bandaging and garments, remedial exercise and self-care training. The goal of our program is to help individuals reduce increase volume resulting from lymphedema, restore mobility, improve cosmesis, prevent infection, and improve their quality of life.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is the accumulation of protein rich fluid in the interstitial tissues that can cause swelling in any part of the body. Typically, this swelling is asymmetric and most often observed in either an arm or leg. Lymphedema can develop when individuals are born with a malformation or absence of their lymphatic vessels (primary lymphedema) or when the lymph vessels are damaged or removed (secondary lymphedema).

Physical Signs of Lymphedema

• Patients often complain that an arm or leg looks and feels larger
• Rings, watches and bracelets feel tighter than usual
• The limb aches, feels heavy and skin feels stretched
• Swelling doesn't resolve with elevation or diuretics
• Clothes feel tighter in a specific region of the body

Treatment Phases

Our program consists of two phases of treatment that can successfully address lymphedema in mild to severe stages.

Phase I: Intense Treatment Phase 

Patients receive four-five 1 ½ hour treatments per week for an average of 2-3 weeks or until maximum volume reduction is achieved. Emphasis is on:

• Manual lymph drainage
• Skin care
• Compression bandaging
• Remedial exercises
• Self-care training

Phase II: Maintenance Phase 

Once maximum volume reduction is achieved, patients are measured for compression garments to wear during the day. In addition, patients continue with nighttime bandaging or alternative compression, exercise, skin and nail care, MLD as needed and follow-up visits.