Click on one of the following links:Lymphedema • Treatment • Preventative Measures
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Lymphedema • Treatment • Preventative Measures
The most common symptoms associated with lymphedema include:
  • Decreased flexibility in the affected extremities

  • Tightly fitting clothing on a particular extremity

  • Persistant and sometimes painful swelling

  • Feeling of heaviness

  • Repeated episodes of infection, such as cellulitis

The treatment plan for lymphedema depends upon its cause. Each patient's treatment plan is based upon individual needs and medical history.

Presently, the most effective and least invasive approach recommended by physicians is Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), a combination of hygiene/topical skin care, manual lymphatic drainage, bandaging/compression and remedial exercises.

Patients attend five therapy sessions a week, consisting of the following:

Hygiene and Topical Skin Care
  • Eliminating bacterial/fungal growth
  • Using pH-balanced skin lotions
  • Teaching meticulous skin and nail care

Manual Lymphatic Drainage
  • Specific manual movements along lymphatic pathways that empty and release obstructive lymph vessels

  • Applying light rhythmic pressure in circular motions to stimulate movement of lymph fluid along the vessel pathway

Manual lymphatic drainage should be avoided if the following conditions exist: congestive heart failure, thrombosis (blood clots), local or acute infection with fever and undiagnosed swelling.

  • Bandaging follows each manual lymphatic drainage session

  • Bandages are minimally elastic and prevent lymph fluid from reentering the affected arm or leg

  • Bandages are worn overnight until the next session

  • Upon completion of the course of treatment, the patient is custom-fit for an elastic support garment when the arm or leg is close to normal.

Remedial Exercises
  • Exercises with bandages in place are prescribed for each patient to complete daily

  • Exercise activates each muscle group and causes the swollen arm or leg joint to have better lymph flow


For additional information on our Lymphedema Treatment Program, please contact Cheryl Peck, PTA at (610) 337-7155 and for information on Lymphedema visit www.lymphnet.org.

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