When should you see a certified lymphedema therapist?
Is one of your limbs bigger than the other? Do you feel like part of your body's been a little more swollen or tight since your cancer treatment? Are you about to begin treatment for your cancer and would like to have pre-treatment measurements for the early identification of symptoms?
We are here to help!
Cancer-related lymphedema is a side effect of cancer treatment. Lymphedema is a protein-rich swelling that can be seen and felt. Lymphedema can happen as a result of injury to your lymphatic system following cancer treatment, such as surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy. It can occur at any time after treatment.
Left untreated, it can lead to disability including recurrent infections, pain, decreased range of motion, skin changes, and disfigurement.
What we do
We are certified lymphedema therapists that specialize in the treatment of lymphedema utilizing the gold standard of lymphedema management: Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT). Our focus is to decrease your swelling, improve your skin health, decrease pain and teach you what you need to know to manage your lymphedema.
What Combined Decongestive Therapy consists of:
Initial Assessment
We will assess you at any point during or after your cancer journey. We can treat breast cancer-related lymphedema, head/neck lymphedema, LE lymphedema secondary to colon, bladder, gynecological cancers, and many more.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
We will perform manual lymphatic drainage techniques to re-route congested areas to the unaffected areas in your body. This will stimulate your lymphatics to pump more efficiently and help reduce your swelling.
Compression Therapy
We will apply a multi-layered bandaging system to your affected limb in order to decrease the swelling. We will also recommend and assess the fit of long-term compression garments for daytime and nighttime use.
Skin Care
We will complete skin care as necessary and educate you on skincare and risk reduction practices for optimal skin health and to reduce the risk of infection.
Therapeutic Exercises
We will prescribe individualized home exercises in order to stimulate your lymphatics for decreased swelling and to improve joint mobility if needed.
Education
Combined Decongestive Therapy includes extensive education to teach you what you will need to know in order for you to be able to self-manage your lymphedema.
Contact us to schedule an appointment or ask a question.
