Are you experiencing swelling in your arms, legs, trunk, head or neck? You could have Lymphedema, a condition in which the lymphatic system (part of your circulatory system) of the body is unable to properly transport lymph fluid from the tissue spaces back into the bloodstream. Lymphedema can occur for a variety of reasons, including: an impaired lymphatic system from birth, after a surgery (most commonly after lymph node removal during surgery for breast or other cancers), infection (like cellulitis) or radiation treatment.
Our therapists can provide invaluable, rehabilitative care for people with lymphedema by providing programs designed to improve strength, flexibility, endurance and range of motion, as well as, reduce swelling and other symptoms.
Treatment may include the following:
- Manual lymphatic drainage through a specialized massage technique
- Scar mobilization
- Multi-layer bandaging to decrease swelling and soften the tissues
- Compression garments to decrease swelling during daily activities
- Therapeutic exercises to improve lymph drainage