Lymphedema Therapy
Lymphedema occurs
when lymphatic fluid collects in the extremities,
such as the arms, legs or other body parts, causing
abnormal swelling. In the United States, approximately
2.5 million people of all ages have lymphedema.
Primary lymphedema may appear at birth, puberty
or adulthood. The cause of primary lymphedema
can be heredity, but often the cause is unknown.
Secondary or acquired lymphedema, the most common
form, develops as a result of surgery, radiation,
chemotherapy, infection, obesity or trauma.
Patients undergoing specific surgeries that
require removal of the lymph nodes are at risk
for developing lymphedema. If lymphedema is left
untreated, patients may lose function of the
affected area of the body or extremity, develop
skin problems, or suffer with pain or serious
infections. There is no cure for lymphedema;
however, there are effective shortand long-term
advanced treatment programs.
About Our Program
Penn Care at Home offers specialized rehabilitation
therapy for homebound patients with mild to
severe forms of primary or secondary lymphedema.
It is available to home care, hospice or infusion
therapy patients.
As part of the University of Pennsylvania Health
System, our clinical professionals receive extensive
training and annual competency reviews. All programs
participate in ongoing continuing education programs.
Patients also have the flexibility of receiving
the same consistent level of care at Penn's outpatient
therapy programs at its hospitals or outpatient
facilities.
Program Goals
The goals of our lymphedema program include:
- controlling lymphedema symptoms
- increasing functional capabilities
- enhancing the quality of life
- maximizing independence
- encouraging responsibility for long-term
rehabilitation efforts
Lymphedema Treatment
Penn Care at Home's physical therapists are certified
in treating lymphedema. Our physical therapists
are trained in Complete Decongestive Therapy
(CDT), a gentle, non-invasive successful treatment
for chronic extremity lymphedema.
CDT includes four steps:
- manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) therapy – a
massage technique that drains excess fluid
from the affected tissues.
- compression therapy – occurs
with each MLD treatment and includes application
of multilayered bandages to prevent re-accumulation
of fluid. Compression garments are worn in
later phases of the treatment.
- exercise therapy – occurs with
multi-layered bandages in place. Exercises
help to increase muscle and joint activity
and reduce swelling.
- skin and nail care – provides
educational materials and specific methods
for preventing serious infections from bacterial
or fungal growth.
For more information about lymphedema therapy,
call 866-888-8598.
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