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Lymphedema Therapy 


What Is Lymphedema?

Lymph vessels are located just below the skin.  These vessels are connected to the
lymph nodes which are located in the groin, armpits and neck.  These vessels move
fluid from the tissues.  As this fluid is moved, waste materials are carried to the
lymph nodes so they can be absorbed and eliminated.  When the vessels are not able
to move the fluid back to the heart for recirculation, swelling occurs.  Most often the
limbs are affected but other parts of the body can also suffer the consequences of lymphedema. 
Primary Lymphedema is caused by dysfunction of the lymphatic system.  Secondary
Lymphedema is due to damage to the lymphatic system.  There is no cure for Lymphedema.
The goal is to reduce swelling and maintain that reduction.


               



How Did I Get Lymphedema?

Lymphedema can be a result of radiation treatment, lymph node removal, infections, mastectomies,
lumpectomies, trauma, wounds, burns, surgeries or Inherited Lymphedema.


Lymphedema Therapy

This therapy consists of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD).  Special hand strokes, to gently massage
the affected area, manually move the lymph fluid to healthy lymph nodes where it can drain.  This is a safe,
effective, non-invasive method to reduce the swelling.  Bandages are applied to retain the swell reduction.

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is comprised of four components:

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
Therapeutic Exercises
Bandaging / Compression Garments (to maintain reduction)
Skin Care


Living With Lymphedema

There are several things one can do to make living with Lymphedema easier:

Avoid trauma / injury to the area

Drink plenty of water

Don't allow shots or blood draws on the affected limb when possible

Engage in moderate exercise approved by your physician or therapist

Don't wear clothes, jewelry or shoes that limit circulation

Eat a balanced diet avoiding salt, alcohol, sugars and fatty foods

Keep skin mositurized to avoid cracking

Avoid sitting for extended periods to prevent swelling

Have blood pressure taken on unaffected arm

Maintain a healthy weight 

              
The focus of our treatments will be to reduce swelling, bandaging to maintain that
reduction and the use of therapeutic exercises to assist you in achieving the
maximum results.  Each case is based on the individual, their physical
abilities and physician recommendations.


Call to schedule an appointment at 847-229-0140.

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Lake County Physical Therapy, LLC