Oncology Rehab

Lymphedema Therapy

Summary text from statement on the benefits of lymphedema therapy - American Cancer Society

February 28, 2007

If you are diagnosed with lymphedema, there is effective treatment to reduce the swelling, prevent it from getting worse, and limit the risk of infection.  Typically, the therapy is prescribed by your doctor and should be given by an experienced therapist.  Lymphedema should be treated by a physical or occupational therapist who has gone through specialized training who will provide skin care, massage, special bandaging, exercise, and fitting for a compression sleeve.  (This is sometimes known as Complex Decongestive Therapy, or CDT.)

MLD or Manual lymphatic drainage is a type of massage used in combination with skin care, compression therapy and exercise to manage lymphedema.  Seeking and getting treatment early should lead to a shorter course of treatment to get your lymphedema under control.

We at Spring Mountain Rehab are dedicated to providing the best individualized care to our patients and helping them to manage their condition and improve their capabilities for their activities of daily living.  Please call us with any specific questions that you have.

Early Symptoms of Lymphedema:

• Tightness, swelling or thickening anywhere in the extremity.  Initially the swelling may fluctuate but over time it worsens
• A burning or tingling sensation radiating down the extremity
• Complaints of  heaviness or aching, fullness or aching of the extremity.

Individualized patient treatment coordinated with a team of professionals can provide the patient and the family with information and support to meet the challenge of managing a chronic condition and preventing recurring exacerbation.  Therapeutic intervention provides patients with the tools for independent management of the condition and maximizing their return to work or leisure and improved quality of life.  Depending on the plan of treatment, the program usually requires 3 sessions a week of 60 - 75 minutes for a duration of 4 - 6 weeks on average.

Individualized treatment plans are designed to:

• Educate the patient and family to achieve optimal level of physical capabilities and independence.
• Control and mitigate the symptoms and complications of lymphedema including management of limb/joint pain and edema.
• Provide comprehensive lymphatic therapy services including:
  • Manual Lymph Drainage
  • Compression Therapy
  • Exercise Training
  • Prevention Training
• Provide comprehensive training for establishing a home program after discharge to maintain gains achieved while in therapy.

For More Information Contact:

Spring Mountain Rehab
2701 N. Tenaya Way, #290 Las Vegas, Nevada 89128
Tel: 702-869-4401
FAX: 702-869-9904
Internet: Admin@SpringMountainRehab.Com

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Last modified: 11/01/09