When your lymph system is compromised, fluid builds up in your body. This causes severe swelling of the limbs and other body parts. Lymphedema occurs most commonly after surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy for the treatment of cancer. Other causes may include infection, obesity, venous insufficiency, trauma, as well as recovery from joint replacement or other surgeries. After diagnosis, the staff at Absolut Care will work with you, your family, and your physician to create a detailed, customized plan of care. With Lymphedema, the specific course of treatment varies by individual based on the symptoms and response to treatment. Generally, you should expect to be treated three to five times a week for two to eight weeks depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individualized treatment plan chosen to best manage it.

• Swelling of the limb
• Heaviness and Limitation of Movement
• Repeated Infections
• Skin Thickening or Hardening
• General Discomfort

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a comprehensive treatment
for lymphedema using non-invasive therapy and includes the following:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): MLD is a gentle, hands-on massage
of both the affected body part and adjacent selected areas. MLD can move lymph fluid from the swollen region into parts of the lymphatic system
that are still functioning. From there, the fluid is transported throughout the circulatory system.

Compression Bandaging: After MLD, the treated area is wrapped with
layers of compression bandages. Bandages help prevent the reaccumulation
of lymphatic fluid.

Therapeutic Exercise: Medically supervised exercise programs are designed to strengthen muscles and improve circulation and function of the lymph system.

Skin and Nail Care: People with Lymphedema are at high risk for infection, especially cellulitis. Signs of cellulitis include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. See your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms.

Compression Garment Filling: Once the affected body part is decongested, you will be fitted for a medial compression garment, such as an arm sleeve or thigh high. These garments, worn daily, help maintain the results achieved through
lymphedema treatment.

Personalized Education in Self-Care: Our lymphedema specialists will teach you how to maintain your treatment progress through at-home techniques, including self-bandaging, self-massage, exercise, and skin and nail care.

If you live with Lymphedema, you know how embarrassing and painful it can be. An estimated 5 to 10 million people are suffering from chronic edema caused by lymphedema. When left untreated, symptoms become more painful
and debilitating leading to decreased mobility, dexterity, range of motion,
and the ability to perform daily actions.

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At Absolut Care, we successfully treat lymphedema through comprehensive, non-invasivetherapy, on an outpatient basis.

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