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Lymphedema Therapy
It focuses on the condition to reduce swelling and prevent complications that may arise from Lymphedema.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition in which extra lymph fluid builds up in tissues and causes swelling. It may occur in an arm or leg if lymph vessels are blocked, damaged, or removed by surgery.
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There are 2 types of Lymphedema:
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Primary Lymphedema
Abnormal development of the lymph vascular system. These lymphatic abnormalities may exist from birth but the symptoms may not appear until later in life.
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Secondary Lymphedema
Occurs when the lymph vessels are blocked, removed by surgery or damaged by radiation.
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Common causes of Secondary Lymphedema includes:
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Filariasis
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Due to surgery and/or radiation for cancer
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Trauma
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Infection
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Obesity
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Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
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Latrogenic
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Cancer
How do I know if I have Lymphedema?
The onset of lymphedema is usually slow but progressive.
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Lymphedema usually starts distally in the extremity. The swelling may be obvious from side to side. It may also limit the range of motion over the affected area, such as limited hip and knee range of motion, as seen in lower extremity lymphedema.
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There may be the loss of anatomical contours in the lower limbs, such as obscured ankle anatomical contours due to the accumulation of swelling over the area.
Pitting of the affected limb can be present and indicates the amount of fluid present in the tissues. The degree of pitting varies depending on the stage of lymphedema. Pitting can be tested by applying firm pressure over the affected limb for 20-30 seconds. If the indentation does not resolve immediately after the pressure is released, then it is considered pitting.
Common signs/symptoms:
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Swelling in parts of the body
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Limbs that feels full or heavy
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Hard, tight skin
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Folds developing in the skin
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Fluid leaking through the skin
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Difficulty with movement
What is lymphedema therapy?
Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition. Your lymphedema therapist will first conduct a clinical examination to better understand your medical history and physically assess your current condition before the administration of treatment.
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The gold standard of lymphedema treatment is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT comprises four parts: skin care, manual lymph drainage (MLD), compression bandaging and exercise.
It is crucial to get early intervention upon onset of lymphedema to prevent further progression of the condition.
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What to expect during consultation
Assess
We will conduct a thorough assessment through a series of clinical questions and physical tests to analyze what is the main cause of the problem. This helps us diagnose the root cause of your symptoms, and guides our treatment plan to help you move better.
Treat
We provide individualized treatment based on the latest evidence-based approach, using manual therapy techniques such as deep tissue massage, joint mobilization to restore functional range of motion and reduce pain.
Educate
Based on our assessment findings, we will design and prescribe an individualized exercise program targeted towards solving your problem. Our therapists will educate and guide you on your journey to recovery and self management.