Lymphedema Therapy

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 the 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

  • Filariasis

  • Cancer (Maglignant Lymphedema)

  • C.V.I. (Chronic Venous Insufficiency)

  • Self Induced (Artificial Lymphedema, Fictitious Lymphedema)
 

Complete Decongestive Therapy

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

About our Lymphedema Therapists

 

  • Educated by Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, qualified to treat Lymphedema (both primary and secondary), Lipedema, Phlebo-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
  • Wear proper fitting footwear
  • Avoid trauma injury
  • Reduce infection risk
  • Keep extremity clean and dry
  • Do not cut cuticles during nailcare
  • Avoid prolonged standing and sitting
  • Avoid crossing legs when possible
  • Maintain optimal weight
  • Wear well-fitting compression garments
  • Avoid exposure to extreme cold
  • Avoid immersing limb in water above 102° F
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (greater than 15 minutes)

Lymphedema Therapy can be provided in a variety of settings including:
  • Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
  • Hospital (inpatient)
  • Nursing Home
  • Patient's Home