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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.
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