Lymphedema
Welcome to Walk of Life PT, where we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for individuals with lymphedema.
Our team of expert therapists is committed to helping you overcome the challenges of this condition and improve your quality of life.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a chronic disease that results in a build up of lymph fluid (swelling) that occurs when the lymphatic system is either faulty or damaged. There are many causes, but the most common is cancer treatments that remove or damage lymph nodes or lymph vessels. There is no cure for lymphedema, but it can be effectively treated. Breast cancer is the 2nd most common cancer among women in the U.S. according to the CDC. The treatment that these patients undergo such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can immensely alter these patient’s physical health.
After a patient undergoes a mastectomy or lumpectomy along with radiation, the skin where the breast tissue was removed can become very tight and fibrotic (hardened tissue). This condition will very likely be painful and limit their upper extremity range of motion.
Following lymph removal, these patients may experience a condition called axillary webbing, which will also greatly restrict their upper extremity range of motion.
PT can help by using techniques such as instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), passive ROM, and strengthening exercises to break down the fibrosis, axillary webbing, and scar tissue to improve overall ROM.
These patients are at high risk for developing lymphedema if they’ve had lymph nodes removed.
What is Needed for Lymphedema Treatment?
Teaching patients about Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT is a technique that includes manual lymph drainage (MLD), bandaging, compression garments and skin care. Lymphedema patients are at a much higher risk for skin infections and this is addressed on the first visit. Bandaging includes use of short stretch bandaging to reduce swelling and prevent fluid accumulation until they can be fitted for a compression garment to maintain gains.
How Walk of Life PT Can Help
At Walk of Life PT, we offer comprehensive lymphedema rehabilitation services to help you manage the symptoms of this condition and improve your overall well-being. Our team of experienced therapists is skilled in providing manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, exercise programs, and skin care to help reduce swelling and improve lymphatic flow.
We also offer education and support to help you manage your condition on a day-to-day basis, including guidance on self-care techniques, lifestyle modifications, and the use of compression garments. Our patient-centered approach to care means that we work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.
Our exclusive facility is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for our patients. We prioritize patient comfort and privacy in our treatment approach and strive to create a nurturing environment that promotes healing and recovery.
Don’t let lymphedema limit your quality of life. Contact Walk of Life PT today to learn more about our lymphedema rehabilitation services and schedule your appointment. Let us help you get back to living your life to the fullest.