Lymphedema
Lymphedema is chronic swelling of an area of the body due to a permanent obstruction of the lymphatic pathways that carry tissue fluid away from that area. Because there is inadequate tissue fluid drainage, the fluid becomes stagnant and builds up in the tissue. This build-up, in turn, can cause:
- Chronic, low-grade inflammation
- Fibrosis or hardening of the tissue
- Decreased flexibility in affected joints such as hand, wrist or ankle
- An increase in skin temperature
- Mild to severe increase in limb girth (size)
- Decrease in tissue healing ability
- High susceptibility to infections and/or cellulitis
There is no cure for Lymphedema. However, it can be significantly reduced and controlled with therapy and self management. Early intervention is the most effective.
Treatment
Allegiance Physical Rehabilitation treats both upper and lower lymphedema. We also treat the circulatory problems that can lead to edema problems. The treatment team consists of a physical therapist certified to provide lymphedema treatments, partnered with specially trained physical therapist assistants.
Our treatment techniques are based on successful European programs consisting of:
- Manual Lymphatic Treatment (MLT) — Using specific massage therapies to drain excess fluid
- Medical compression bandaging
- Exercise
- Instruction in lymphedema safety precautions
- Instruction in self-massage and lymphatic drainage facilitation exercises
- Use of compression garments (if needed)
- Self-management training