Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a disease caused by damage or malformation of the lymphatic system.  Often Lymphedema is brought on by surgery and/or radiation for cancer treatment.  Chemotherapy may also play a part in the causation of Lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a progressive disorder that can be greatly improved through the use of Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).  

Lymphedema Treatment

Advanced Lymphedema is treated by Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) of which Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) and/or Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) are a part.

Compression Bandaging

As part of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), compression bandaging is applied to the affected area.  

Bandaging helps:

• Keep fluid from returning to the area
• Assists the lymphatic system in pumping fluid out of the affected area as the body moves
• Breaks up hard (fibrotic) tissues, making the area softer.

If a person is able to use Electro-Lymphatic Drainage (ELT), the necessity for compression bandaging is often minimized.

Compression Garments

Lymphedema is managed long-term (following Complete Decongestive Therapy) by wearing specially fitted compression garments.