Lymphedema affects approximately one in 1000 Americans. It is a chronic condition that has no cure but can be managed. Fortunately, in home Lymphedema therapy can help manage this chronic condition! It takes teamwork between the therapist and the client to be successful! At First State Rehab At Home, Our Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLT) use proven and effective techniques to help those with
this chronic progressive condition achieve their goals.
How therapy works:
Our Certified Lymphedema Therapists are licensed physical or occupational therapist who have completed the mandatory 135 hour certification course offered by one of four training schools in the USA and then continue to participate in further education to further build their skills and knowledge base. We believe it is imperative that any client seeking treatment for this disorder receive it from a trained therapist so look for the “CLT” after their names!
Lymphedema therapy is referred to as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and is the gold standard for successful treatment for this chronic disorder. First State Rehab At Home provides it 5 days a week for two to three weeks, at which point our patients are independent at taking care
of themselves.
It consists of two phases:
- Phase 1 consists of education and reduction of limb volume. It is important for our patients to understand what lymphedema is and why it is so important to reduce it. Lymphatic fluid is a high protein content fluid. Think of it as a protein shake for germs that all of us have on the surface of our skin. Any small cut in the skin is an avenue for germs to get into that fluid, setting the stage for a serious infection called cellulitis. Cellulitis can lead to septicemia, requiring hospitalization.
Education for skin care includes teaching our patients to inspect, cleanse and moisturize their skin every day. This is the best way to observe any sign or symptom of infection. Education also includes instruction in exercise that promotes lymphatic fluid via muscle pump action and discussion of nutrition as it impacts lymphedema.
The last element of Phase 1 is the therapist’s role in providing manual lymphatic drainage which is a hands on technique to encourage movement of the fluid back to the heart. At the end of each
session, your therapist will wrap your limbs with compression wraps, usually consisting of foam and short stretch bandages, that you leave in place until the next visit. When fluid reduction is attained, your therapist will measure for and order appropriate compression garments for you to use to maintain that reduction.
- Phase 2 is when the patient’s full engagement is necessary. Wearing the compression garments is the only way to maintain limb volume reduction, reducing the risk of infection and damage of the skin. We encourage our patients to look at their garments as an external lymphatic system, in place because their internal one doesn’t work efficiently.
While Lymphedema affects many people, teamwork between therapist and patient can help .To learn more about the benefits of in-home Lymphedema therapy, call us today! 302-304-9729. You can also fill out our Contact form. We would be happy to answer any questions. We see clients in New Castle County DE and Kent County DE .
In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, we serve: Glen Mills, Boothwyn, Chester, Media, Newtown Square, Garnet Valley, Concordville, Aston, Broomall, Springfield, just to name a few.
Image credit at Buoy Health
