 
Lymphedema Therapy
St. Mary Offers Specialized Treatment For Lymphedema
What is Lymphedema
Lymphedema is the build-up of protein-rich fluid. The lymph
system is a complex network of nodes and ducts that helps maintain the balance
of fluid in the body. The lymph system is important in filtering out waste
products and in defending the body against infection. When lymph nodes are
removed by surgery, such as surgery for cancer treatment, or destroyed by
injury, the normal flow of lymph is disrupted. A backup of fluids can occur in
the tissue downstream from the missing lymph nodes, especially when there also
is increased activity, infection or injury. This swelling is different from that
caused by tissue damage, such as from a sprained ankle, and is not relieved by
the use of diuretics, which cannot eliminate the protein build up.
The build-up of fluid can be gradual and without pain and can occur over a period of time. Some people do not even realize that lymphedema is occurring until it reaches a critical stage.
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Treatment
for Lymphedema includes
massage
of the affected area |
Compression
wraps are used
to control swelling and fluid
build up. |
Lymphedema is the swelling of tissues caused by the
buildup of lymph fluid. It most often occurs in the arms and legs. A
CLT performs massage-like manual lymph drainage that stimulates the pulsation of
the lymph vessel walls to assist drainage of the lymph fluid into lymph vessels
that are still functioning.
The lymphatic system
runs alongside the blood circulatory system and plays a critical role in
exchange of nutrients and the elimination of metabolic waste products in the
body.
In addition to the MLD massage, wrappings with
gradient compression bandages, lymphedema-specific exercises, and skin
care to prevent infection and inflammation are among the other Complete
Decongestive Therapy components used to treat lymphedema.
Tramatic injury or infection, the surgical removal of lymph
nodes, for example in the armpits of breast cancer patients, and radiation
therapy for cancer are the most frequent causes of lymphedema.
Prevention and control of lymphedema is important because
if left untreated, the condition almost inevitably becomes worse but with
Complete Decongestive Therapy, even patients with extreme cases can achieve
improvement. Currently there is no pharmeceutical treatment for
lymphedemia.
A physician referral is required
for lymphedemia therapy, and patients must remain under close medical
supervision. Anyone who exhibits swelling resulting from damage to the
lymph system or chronic venous insufficiency resulting from surgery,
chemotherapy or radiation treatment is encourage to consult their physician
about the effectiveness of this treatment for their condition.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition, so maintenance treatment and lifestyle changes to keep the disease in check are vital.
The lymphedema program is located
in the Outpatient Wellness Center at St. Mary. Certified specialist Brigette Burns is
trained in Complete Decongestive Therapy and is a member of the St. Mary
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department. She has a master's degree
in occupational therapy and has received training from Guenter Klose and Klose
Training and Consulting.
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