Lymphedema Therapy

An integrated protocol for reducing lymphedema and its symptoms. It does not “cure”; but rather alleviates swelling and pain
It is administered in the home under doctor’s orders
It combines manual lymph drainage maneuvers, multi-layer bandaging and fitting of compression garments
Diabetic and safety counseling as well as exercise instruction are incorporated
Proper administration requires supervision by a certified lymphedema therapist
Patients are typically seen 3 to 4 times each week for 4-6 weeks
Under certain circumstances and always in consultation with the attending physician, lymphedema pumps may be incorporated into the treatment

Assessment of skin integrity
Assessment of functional mobility
Assessment of impaired daily activities
Assessment of pain level
Assessment of affected areas and levels of sensations
Strengthening test
Manual Lymph Drainage – A gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to decrease the swelling
Medical Compression Bandaging – facilitates Lymph flow and assist in the maintaining positive effects of the manual Lymph drainage between treatments
Sequential Pumping – used as needed to assist in Lymph drainage in combination with manual Lymph drainage and medical compression bandaging
Exercise Program – A personalized exercise program to assist in improving range of motion, strength and ability to perform everyday activities
Patient/caregiver education – Proper skin care, self massage, exercise, and precautions to assist in making positive life-style choices