Lymphedema Clinic

Lymphedema may be a side affect of cancer when surgery is performed, and lymph nodes are removed, or with radiation treatments. This damage may result in a back-up of fluid. Lymphedema may also be the result of severe trauma, infection, obseity, deep vein thrombosis, filiarial disease and genetic or hereditary anomalies of the lymphatic system.

Forsyth Rehabilitation Center has specially-trained therapists who evaluate people with lymphedema or who are at risk for it. Our fulltime physical therapist is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist with advanced training in providing lymphatic drainage massage, medical compression bandaging, and education on recognizing signs and preventing symptoms of lymphedema.

Symptoms of Lymphedema:

Affected body part feels heavy or tight

Reduced range of motion in the affected area

Aching or discomfort in the affected area

Recurring infections

Hardening of the skin in the affected area

Skin that "pits" or shows a dent when finger pressure is applied and then removed

Treatment of Lymphedema

The suggested treatment is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). This treatment includes four parts, although it is best to check with a medical doctor if any alterations in the treatment are needed.

Manual Lymph Drainage- a light massage that is used to facilitate the flow of the lymph fluid in the proper direction

Compression Bandaging involves using a special bandage applied to the affected area to prevent the re-accumulation of fluid

Decongestive Exercises- performed to enlist the assistance of the muscles to pump the fluid out of the affected area.

Personal Hygiene- patients are taught skin and nail care in order to avoid infections and the risk of further swelling

* Once the swelling in the affected area decreases or plateaus, daily and nightly use of compression garments are recommended to decrease the chance of further swelling.

These services are available in the Whitaker building at Forsyth Medical Center for more information call 277-2250