Lymphedema Therapy - Massage Therapy Connections

Lymphedema is an unhealthy accumulation of lymph fluid in the body. Your lymph fluid is responsible for fighting infection and disease by collecting and moving bacteria, viruses and waste that are found in your body. When extra fluid builds up, it creates swelling, usually in an arm or leg.

Lymphedema can result from injury, surgery, cancer treatment or is sometimes a hereditary disorder. It can lead to infection and pain. Once you have lymphedema, it can be managed, but not cured. Therefore, it is important to prevent it from occurring.

Treatment consists of:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Therapeutic exercises
Skin care
Patient education

Depending on the stage or progression of the disorder, the plan of care is determined individually and may require intensive phase treatments 3 times/week to decrease swelling and progress to compression bandaging as soon as possible. Intensive therapy is followed by a second, individualized management phase of treatment that is designed to continue improvement.

The most common cause of Lymphedema in the United States is breast cancer treatment and typically involves one or both arms. Symptoms can be a heaviness in the affected limb, swelling (can vary from mild to severe), decreased flexibility and tightness or redness of the skin.

Risks of Lymphedema after Breast Cancer Treatment

Certified Lymphedema Therapists undergo a 135 hour hands-on course through a nationally approved school. The MTC Therapist who is Certified is Mary Ann Maloney. Mary Ann is also a Licensed Massage Therapist.

Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your case.