What is Lymphedema?
The lymph system assists in removal of waste product from the body and aids in the immune response. Lymph vessels are found throughout the body and they carry a protein enriched fluid. Lymphedema occurs when there is damage, blockage or malformation of the vessels. The fluid will accumulate and may continue to progress. The edema or swelling may occur anywhere on the body, but is most often observed in the arms and legs.
Causes
Primary - This is congenital or hereditary edema/swelling that may be observed as starting at birth, young adult or over the age of 35. The cause is often malformation of the lymph nodes and vessels.
Secondary - The swelling may be as a result of surgery, removal of lymph nodes, radiation, infection, traumatic injury, scar tissue, cancer, certain heart conditions and obesity.
Signs
- Visual swelling that lasts longer than 2-3 months (even if it decreases overnight).
- Full or heavy feeling in the area.
- Clothing/Shoes feels tighter.
- Jewelry is tight.
- Difficulty moving arms or legs.
- Skin tightness.
Stages
- Stage 0 – No swelling but the individual is at risk due to lymph node removal and/or radiation.
- Stage 1 – Area concerned feels swollen and heavy. Pressing on the skin may leave a pit/dent. This stage may be spontaneously reversible but individuals are not often seen at this stage.
- Stage 2 – The swelling decreases very little or not at all with elevation. There may be fibrosis, which is hardening of the skin and tissue. Pressing on the skin may not cause any pitting/denting.
- Stage 3 – This is an advanced stage. The skin has increased fibrosis (hardening) with not pitting/denting. There may be color and texture changes.
Physical Therapy Treatment Available
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
Our Physical Therapist has extensive training and certifications to provide services that include:
- Manual Lymph Drainage – Light sweeps to the skin in order to facilitate the flow of the lymph fluid to appropriate drainage areas.
- Compression Bandaging – Short stretch bandages applied to the area in order to apply constant pressure to encourage lymph fluid to flow out of the affected limb.
- Compression Garment – Garment used once the limb has reduced to decrease risk of re-swelling. The compression bandaging mentioned above is used to move fluid, then compression garments are designed and used to hold the limb at the obtained size.
- Skin care – Lotion and hygiene in order to reduce infection and/or swelling.
- Exercise – Joint and muscle movement promote lymph flow.
Ready To Get Started?
Call 814-861-8122 or Request an Appointment
Our team will get you scheduled quickly, usually within 48 hours
Our Therapy Team has helped thousands of patients get positive results!
-
After my shoulder surgery, my doctor recommended Fit for Play for physical therapy. I have completed 11 weeks of therapy and I am very much satisfied with the results. The therapists that worked with me were very qualified and knowledgeable and showed compassion and concern at all times. I have had therapy at other facilities in the area and there is no comparison to Fit for Play. Thank you Lindsey, Jonna and Tonya.
-
I made great progress and had fun doing it.
-
When my injury first occurred, I was sent to PT (another facility) and failed miserably after only 5 sessions. Fit for Play is excellent and knows how to pace a patient's progress. I know I still have a long way to go but am determined to continue my home exercises and get my life back.
-
Liked both Jessica and Ryenne. The muscular pain in my shoulder was reduced.
-
This is the best thing I have done for my health!
-
I loved the variety of exercises and stretches. Loved the pace - Jess was so careful not to do too much, too fast. She knew just when to encourage me to push more. The massage and range of motion manipulations were great! Thanks!
-
Physician had prescribed optional medication. I took it, but there was no relief. However, the PT treatments and exercises did bring relief.
-
The best thing about my experience is the fact that I have regained the full use of my shoulder without needing surgery. I would recommend FFP to anyone!
-
Excellent treatment by physical therapist and the assistants. Careful attention to my problems with shoulder and adjust to training/treatment as needed.
-
Identified problem effectively and prescribed appropriate solutions resulting in relief.
-
Thank you so much for helping me get back to feeling better. Great job! Special thanks to Jessica and coworkers. You all made me feel very comfortable and made my shoulder feel much better.
-
Absolutely the best PT care I've ever received. I tell everyone and will never go anywhere else!
-
Excellent treatment by physical therapist and the assistants. Careful attention to my problems with shoulder and adjust to training/treatment as needed.
-
Jess and Ryenne have been excellent. They have given me great suggestions on how to be active without causing pain back in my arm and shoulder. Thank you! :)
-
I liked the home program that was developed for me so I can be active in the management of my problem.
-
I should have started with Fit For Play after my surgery, instead of [other practice]. What a difference with hands on treatment! Great job!
-
Staff were helpful, pleasant and informative. Thank you for helping me to heal and provide me with information that I can continue to use.
-
My physician had prescribed optional medication. I took it, but there was no relief. However, the PT treatments and exercises did bring relief.
-
Jess and Ryenne have been excellent. They have given me great suggestions on how to be active without causing the pain back in my arm and shoulder.