Lymphedema Following Cancer
Secondary Lymphedema following cancer treatment is more common than usually assumed. Patients that undergo lumpectomy or mastectomy because of breast cancer may develop secondary Lymphedema in the upper extremity (arm, back, abdomen or chest wall) in approximately one-third of cases. Swelling is primarily treated by conservative methods (exercises and fitting for compression sleeves) that should be applied at an early stage, largely to avoid progression of Lymphedema with development of fibrotic tissue. This can also reduce the incidence of bacterial infection and discomfort that occurs with chronic Lymphedema. The main goal of Combined Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP) is to increase lymphatic transport capacity and if possible to restore the normal size of the limb. At LymphaTx a lymphatic therapist will evaluate your condition and design a treatment protocol specific to your needs.
Lymphedema Chronic Swelling
Lymphedema (chronic swelling) occurs when an interruption of lymphatic flow results in the accumulation of lymphatic fluid causing abnormal swelling in the arms, legs, feet, breast, abdomen, neck or head. When lymphatic vessels are impaired, missing or when lymph nodes are removed, the remaining lymph pathways become congested or blocked. These fluids (waste products) can build up in the connective tissues and becomes thicker and the affected areas feel heavy. This thickening of lymphatic fluid is called fibrosis (hardening of the skin and underlying tissue).
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency creates state of high-protein edema and fibrosclerosis. The valves in the veins channel the flow of blood toward the heart. When these valves are damaged or aged, the blood leaks and pools in the legs and feet. Symptoms include swelling of the legs, pain in the extremities, including dull aching, heaviness, cramping and accumulation of blood in the skin. Cardiac bypass patients should keep a close watch to ensure that venous insufficiency does not develop in the leg(s) where the vein was removed.
Diabetes
Diabetics have compromised circulation which puts them at risk of skin breakdown and amputation. Here is a LymphaTx patient with diabetes that suffered with edema. Note his skin integrity; shiny, tight and missing a great toe. With LymphaTx treatment his swelling improved, putting him in a healthier state.
Orthopedic Surgery
Patients who have had any type of orthopedic surgery such as hip, knee, shoulder replacement or arthroscopic surgery will experience postoperative swelling. We have been successfully treating orthopedic surgery patients with Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Combined Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP). Patients are always referred to physical therapy after surgery. Usually physical therapy post-surgically is painful and the operated area has swelling. In some cases the swelling does not subside in a timely manner. These patients can benefit from CDP and be fitted with compression stockings. MLD has been proven to aid in the absorption of toxins, enhance fluid circulation and induce deep relaxation. Orthopedic surgeons nationwide are seeing the benefits of lymphatic therapy for their patients in preparation for surgery and post-surgical healing. Physicians typically express that the final results of any procedure will be seen in 6 months to one year due to the body’s natural healing time frame. The final results of any procedure will be seen in a shorter period of time with CDP and compression garments.
Pre/Post Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery
Recent studies show that plastic surgery patients often experience postoperative edema which peaks 2 to 4 days following surgery and is followed by soft-tissue fibrosis of the operated area. At LymphaTx we have been treating surgery patients with Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and the HIVAMAT. It has been proven to aid in the absorption of toxins, enhances fluid circulation, stimulates the immune system, absorbs fat molecules and induces deep relaxation. More and more plastic surgeons are seeing the benefits of lymphatic therapy for their patients in preparation for surgery and post-surgical healing. Physicians typically express that the final results of any procedure will be seen in 3 to 6 months due to the body’s natural healing time frame. The final results of any procedure will be seen in a shorter period of time. MLD is commonly used in countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela and Argentina.
Sports Injury
LymphaTx treats the swelling often associated with sports injuries. By reducing swelling pain is decreased, range of motion is increased and overall healing is improved.
The HIVAMAT and Kinesio taping are two adjuncts to LymphaTx’s traditional therapy that are very effective in promoting healing.
