Page 2 - Lymphedema

Treatment for lymphedema is a management system.
It is called complete or complex decongestive therapy
(CDT). It consists of specific exercises, manual
lymphatic drainage (massage), massage, bandaging,
skin care, and education in self care. Part of a
patient’s self care program is being independent
with a compressive garment. These are medical
grade garments. Patients should be given guidance
from their lymphedema specialist regarding type
and intensity of garments. Qualified individuals who
perform this treatment are certified in lymphedema
therapy. They can be physical therapists, occupational
therapists, nurses, and massage therapists. Treatment
for lymphedema is prescribed by a doctor.
If you have a history of a severe injury to a limb or
cancer that has been treated with surgery and or
radiation and you notice some of these things:
swelling, pain, a feeling of tightness or heaviness of
the arm or leg you may be a candidate for treat-
ment. Do not ignore the swelling. Tell you doctor
and seek out treatment. Good success in treatment
of lymphedema starts by catching it early.