Rehabilitation & Other Therapies

Lymphedema therapy program

Lymphedema is the swelling of a body part, most often an arm or leg, resulting from the accumulation of fluid when lymph nodes and vessels are blocked, removed or damaged. It is triggered by the removal or radiation of lymph vessels or nodes and may occur following surgery or treatment of breast, cervical, prostate, uterine or colon cancer, as well as post injury or other surgical procedures.

Both men and women are at risk. The condition may occur following a recent medical condition or procedure, or many years later.

Lymphedema causes tissues to become swollen, thick and painful, and increases the risk for infection leading to more complicated medical conditions. With proper evaluation and intervention, lymphedema therapy can allow a person to lead a positive and productive life.

Experienced staff

Aurora BayCare Medical Center Rehabilitation services employs therapists certified in lymphedema management.

Individualized treatment

To determine the proper individualized course of treatment for our clients, we conduct a thorough evaluation, which includes the following:

  • Patient medical history Assess previous scars
  • Strength testing
  • Range of motion testing
  • Pain level assessment
  • Sensation level assessment of affected area
  •  Circumferential measurement of affected area
  • Skin integrity assessment (color, texture, firmness, temperature and moisture)
  • Functional mobility assessment (ability to walk, stand up, etc.)
  • Assessment of daily activities impaired (ability to self-care, home management, etc.)

Comprehensive care

Lymphedema therapy starts with evaluation to determine the proper and individualized course of treatment. Treatment includes:

  • Manual lymph drainage - A gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to decrease the swelling.
  •  Medical compression bandaging - Facilitates lymph flow and assists in maintaining positive effects of the manual lymph drainage between treatments.
  • Sequential pumping - Used occasionally to assist in lymph drainage in combination with manual lymph drainage and medical compression bandaging.
  • Client and family education - In areas of skin care, self-massage, exercise and precautions to assist in making positive lifestyle choices.
  • Exercise program - A personalized exercise program to assist in improving range of motion, strength, the ability to perform daily activities, and to maintain lymph drainage.