Claiborne County Hospital

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Home Rehabilitation Lymphedema

Lymphedema Therapy

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Whether you need Lymphedema Therapy to improve activities of daily living and quality of life from surgery, radiation therapy, trauma, etc., Claiborne County Hospital Rehabilitation Services therapists can provide your care.

Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid which causes chronic inflammation and reactive fibrosis of the affected body parts.  It is a swelling of a body part most often extremities.  However, it can occur in the face, neck, abdomen or genitals.

Lymphedema may be the result of:

Surgery, Breast Cancer e.g., Lymphoma, Malignant Melanoma, Prostrate and Bladder Cancer, Radical Groin Dissection, Hysterectomy for Cancer, Coronary By-pass Surgery
Radiation Therapy e.g. for Cancer
Trauma e.g. scarring
Obesity
Infection
Filaiasis
Cancer (Maglignant Lymphedema)
C.V.I. (Chronic Venous Insufficiency)
Self Induced (Artificial Lymphedema, Fictitious Lymphedema)

Complete Decongestive Therapy

CDT consists of:
Manual Lymph Drainage
Remedial Exercise
Instructions in Self Care
Compression Bandaging
Meticulous Skin and Nail Care

About our Lymphedema Therapists

Educated by Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, qualified to treat Lymphedema (both primary and secondary), Lipedema, Phelbo-lymphostalic Edema, Chronic Venous Insufficiencies, and Post Traumatic Edema
Caring, Courteous Professionals

Lymphedema risk reduction practices include, but are not limited to the following:

Avoid having BP taken on at risk arm
Avoid trauma injury
Keep extremity clean and dry
Avoid prolonged standing and sitting
Maintain optimal weight
Avoid exposure to extreme cold
Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (greater that 15 minuest)
Wear proper fitting footwear
Reduce infection risk
Do not cut cuticles during nailcare
Avoid crossing legs when possible
Wear well-fitting compression garments
Avoid immersing limb in water above 102° F

Lymphedema Therapy can be provided in a variety of settings including:

Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
Nursing Home
Hospital (inpatient)
Patient's Home