Lymphedema Therapy
Lymphedema is a progressive, regional swelling problem that requires treatment and ongoing home management. Hoag Hospital Rehabilitation Services is recognized by the National Lymphedema Network as a comprehensive outpatient treatment center aimed at swelling reduction and patient education. Physical therapists at Hoag have advanced training and certification in Complete Decongestive Therapy, as well as, experience utilizing other treatment modalities.
Initial evaluation may include the following:
- Medical history and patient goals
- Symptom assessment
- Circumferential measurements of the affected area(s)
- Tissue quality assessment
- Skin quality assessment
- Analysis of current self-treatment regimen, including assessment of current compression garments
- Functional assessment of ability to perform self-care management of lymphedema
Treatment for lymphedema may include:
- Manual Lymph Drainage – a highly specialized massage technique that decreases swelling by stimulating lymphatic circulation
- Compression Bandaging – a series of wraps worn for 22 hours/day during the treatment phase resulting in swelling reduction
- Lymphedema exercises to stimulate circulation
- Education on lymphedema precautions, skin care, and all aspects of self-management of lymphedema
- Referral for appropriate compression garments to maintain the benefits of treatment