“Managing your symptoms closer to home.”
Lymphedema Therapy of Southern Ky LLC
What is lymphedema?
It is a condition that damages the lymphatic system.
Our lymphatic system is responsible for maintaining fluid levels in our body and removing any excess.
John Hopkins defines it, “Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of protein-rich fluid in any part of the body as a result of malfunction in the lymphatic system. You can be born with it (primary lymphedema) or develop it as a result of damage to the lymphatic system, such as after surgery or infection (secondary lymphedema).”
Damage to this system can be caused by:
-Surgery from cancer treatment including removal of lymph nodes.
-Trauma that causes damage to the lymphatic system.
-Venous insufficiency
-Hereditary lymphedema
This condition is chronic in nature and there is no cure, but with treatment and education the lymphedema can be reduced and maintained.
What is lymphedema therapy?
Lymphedema therapy is provided by a OT/PT who is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) and/or a Certified Lymphedema and Wound Therapist (CLWT).
The acute phase of treatment provided by the PT/OT includes:
Manual lymphatic drainage (gentle massage).
Multi-layer short stretch bandaging
Skin Care/wound care
Exercises
Custom fitting for compression garments
Home maintenance program training.
