FAQs and Benefits of Lymphedema Management Therapy
Would You Benefit From Lymphedema Management Therapy?
If you or a loved one are experiencing swelling in the arms or legs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system, Moreau Physical Therapy can help.
Our team of experienced therapists understands lymphedema management. We can help patients reduce swelling, and manage pain. With our evidence-based approach and personalized treatment plans, we can help you achieve your wellness goals and get back to doing the things you love.
The Importance of Early Treatment and Management
If you have lymphedema, it's essential to seek professional help from a skilled therapist. They are an important member of your healthcare team and can work with you to design a treatment program aimed at controlling the swelling and helping you return to normal activities.
Our Approach to Lymphedema Management Therapy
At Moreau Physical Therapy, our techniques focus on reducing swelling and improving your lymphatic flow. We create personalized treatment plans after thoroughly evaluating your medical history and lifestyle to meet your needs and goals.
Our skilled therapists provide a human touch essential to our treatment philosophy. In addition, we structure appointments to allow enough time with our therapists for questions and open conversations about your concerns.
What Does Lymphedema Management Therapy Look Like?
Managing Mild Lymphedema
In the early stages of lymphedema, mild swelling symptoms may be managed with compression garments, exercise, and limb elevation. Your therapist will work closely with you to balance these treatments for your unique symptoms.
Complete Decongestive Therapy
For more severe swelling, your therapist may use Complete Decongestive Therapy. This therapy utilizes two key steps:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage - a light massaging technique that helps improve lymph flow from your affected limb.
- Compression Bandaging - This step often helps reduce swelling.
Throughout Complete Decongestive Therapy, a therapist will closely monitor the impact of swelling and make adjustments as necessary.
Exercise Program
As the swelling in your limb decreases to the desired size, your therapist will help you begin a safe exercise program. Your therapist will introduce forms of regular exercise to enhance your physical fitness without unnecessarily straining your symptoms.
Additionally, your therapist will update your compression garments as necessary.
Diet Education
A physical therapist educates the patient on proper nutrition, decreasing fluid buildup in tissues, and reducing infection risk.
How to Get Started With Lymphedema Management Therapy?
If you are ready to begin lymphedema management with us, the first step is to schedule an appointment at one of our clinic locations. You can call 85-LIVE-MORE (855-483-6673) or use our online scheduling system to schedule an appointment.
Our clinics are conveniently located across Louisiana and Texas with more than 20 locations. We believe that finding quality physical therapy should be easy and accessible for everyone.
Don't let lymphedema hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Instead, visit your nearest location to start working toward your wellness goals.
Find the Help You Deserve
At Moreau Therapy, we are committed to helping patients manage their lymphedema and improve their quality of life. Don't hesitate to seek treatment if you or someone you know is struggling with lymphedema. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier and happier life.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Here are the top 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Hand Therapy, Speech Therapy, Pediatric Therapy, Chiropractic Services, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy:
1. What is the cause of lymphedema?
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system, responsible for draining fluid (lymph) from tissues, becomes impaired. This can lead to fluid buildup, causing swelling in affected areas, commonly limbs. Two main types of lymphedema exist:
- Primary lymphedema: Caused by a developmental abnormality in the lymphatic system present from birth or appearing in adolescence.
- Secondary lymphedema: Caused by an acquired injury or damage to the lymphatic system.
2. What is the best treatment for lymphedema?
There's no cure for lymphedema, but treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The best approach often involves a combination of therapies:
- Complete decongestive therapy (CDT): A cornerstone treatment involving manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, skin care, and exercises to promote lymph flow.
- Compression garments: Wearing specialized garments helps reduce swelling and maintain the progress achieved through CDT.
- Pneumatic compression pumps: Using inflatable sleeves or garments intermittently applies pressure to promote lymph flow.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures like lymph node transfers or bypasses may be considered to create new drainage pathways.
3. Can lymphedema go away?
While lymphedema cannot be completely cured, the underlying cause of the damage cannot be reversed, proper management can significantly reduce swelling and improve function. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment with CDT and compression therapy can minimize symptoms and prevent complications.
4. What foods should you avoid if you have lymphedema?
There's no specific dietary restriction for lymphedema. However, maintaining a healthy weight and managing fluid intake are important overall health aspects that can indirectly benefit lymphedema management. Avoiding excessive salt intake can help prevent fluid retention.
5. What are the 3 stages of lymphedema?
The four stages of lymphedema describe the severity of swelling and tissue changes:
- Stage I: Mild, reversible swelling that may subside with elevation.
- Stage II: Moderate, persistent swelling with minimal tissue fibrosis.
- Stage III: Significant swelling with tissue fibrosis and hardening.
- Stage IV: Severe swelling with extensive tissue fibrosis, skin changes, and potential ulceration.
6. Can you get rid of lymphedema without surgery?
In most cases, lymphedema can be managed effectively without surgery through consistent CDT and compression therapy. Surgery is usually considered only in later stages when conservative measures haven't achieved sufficient control.
7. What kind of doctor treats lymphedema?
A lymphedema specialist, often a physical therapist or occupational therapist with specialized training, plays a key role in diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the cause, you may also consult oncologists, surgeons, or vascular specialists.
8. What happens if lymphedema goes untreated?
Untreated lymphedema can lead to complications like:
- Worsening swelling and discomfort
- Increased risk of skin infections
- Cellulitis
- Reduced mobility and functionality
- Lymphedema can be psychologically distressing
9. How serious is lymphedema?
While not directly life-threatening, lymphedema can significantly impact quality of life if left unmanaged. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are crucial to prevent complications and maintain long-term health.
10. Can lymphedema affect the brain?
There's currently no evidence that lymphedema directly affects the brain. However, the chronic pain and discomfort associated with it can contribute to stress and anxiety, potentially impacting mental wellbeing.
