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Lymphedema is a swelling of a body part, most often an arm or leg, caused by an abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid. This chronic and progressive condition causes a feeling of heaviness, discomfort, limitation of function and occasional episodes of infection, and may lead to thickening of the skin and massive swelling. It may be brought on by an injury or removal of the lymph nodes as a result of surgery or radiation treatment.
The Lymphedema Center provides intensive outpatient treatment to alleviate the effects of this disabling condition. Certified staff provide the most effective, least invasive approach to treatment – Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP)
Treatment Program
The medically supervised program is an average of two to four weeks, with patients coming to the center for a minimum of 1 hour per day, three to five days per week. The goals of treatment are to reduce swelling, to prevent bacterial and fungal growth that can lead to infection and for the patient to be independent in all components of the program. CDP is a four-step regime:
1. Skin Care: instruction in the application of low PH, lanolin-
based lotions.
2. Manual Lymph Drainage: a special lymphatic massage which
facilitates the flow of lymph fluid may be taught to patients as
appropriate.
3. Bandaging: elastic bandages are applied to the affected limb
following each massage.
4. Exercise & Elevation: instruction in performing an exercise
routine with bandages on.
To ensure the benefits of CDP treatment continues at home, a custom elastic support garment is ordered, and every patient and family/caregiver receives instruction in manual lymph drainage, bandaging and skin care.
A prior diagnosis of Lymphedema is not required to participate in the program, although a physician’s prescription is required. For information, call 845-786-4358, OR 1-888-70-REHAB, ext. 4358. |
