| Get The Results That You Are
Looking For |
Specializing
in
Orthopedics,
Workman's
Compensation &
Sports Medicine
LaFree
Success Story
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
"My left leg started swelling and became 1.5 inches larger than my right leg. My foot was also swollen and I had a hard time putting a shoe on and was unable to tie it. After many tests it was diagnosed as lymphedema. A therapist treated me for about 2.5 weeks. Through massage therapy 3 times a week and keeping the foot and leg wrapped, the swelling went down. I was then fitted for a support garment that I wear all waking hours to keep the swelling down. I was very impressed with the treatment of my leg and the outcome and would recommend LaFree to anyone." -- L.H. |
|
Lymphedema? Swelling? We Can Help! |
What Is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a swelling caused by a buildup of fluid (lymph) in the soft tissues of the limbs. Lymphedema is a condition that affects the lymphatic vessels, which are responsible for transporting protein-rich lymph fluid back into the circulatory system. When lymph vessels are unable to transport this fluid properly, a build-up occurs, resulting in swelling and the thickening of the skin.
|
|
Who Is At Risk ?
If you have had a mastectomy, lumpectomy, radiation treatment, lymph node removal, surgeries, infections, or trauma to the limbs, you may be at risk for developing lymphedema. Less commonly, you can also be born with lymphema because of your genetic makeup. Symptoms may be diagnosed at birth, during childhood or early adulthood.
|
Treatment & Management of Lymphedema
 Although there is no cure, lymphedema can be managed with Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
What is CDT?
Complete Decongestive Therapy is a highly successful and non-invasive treatment which is predominantly used to manage lymphedema, but is an effective treatment for all of the following conditions:
•
Lymphedema
• Post-Surgical & Post Traumatic Swellings
• Chronic Venous Insufficiencies
• Amputee Stump Edema
• Edema of Other Geneses (excluding cardiac related edema)
 All aspects of CDT are performed by our Certified Lymphedema Therapist, who is certified by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and LANA. CDT consists of the following techniques:
• Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
• Compression Therapy
• Exercises
• Skin Care
Who is a good candidate for MLD/CDT?
Most individuals with edema of all geneses are candidates for MLD/CDT. Patients must be ready to make a commitment to attend treatment sessions and follow up as directed by their therapist. Unfortunately, not everyone with edema is appropriate for this type of treatment. Individuals with acute infections, cardiac edema, acute bronchitis, or acute DVT are not eligible for MLD. Individuals with cardiac edema, arterial diseases, RSD, acute infections, and spasticity are not eligible for compression therapy, which is essential to effectively treat individuals with lymphedema.
 Results You Can See!
The photographs on this web page are examples of the results that are possible with MLD/CDT. Photos courtesy of the Academy of Lymphatic Studies.
Do not hesitate to contact us with your questions regarding MLD/CDT or for any of our physical therapy services.
|
|
