Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling when lymph fluid builds up in the body’s tissues. It commonly affects the arms or legs and may occur after surgery, radiation therapy, cancer treatment, injury, or due to congenital conditions. Our lymphedema management program focuses on reducing swelling, improving comfort and mobility, and helping patients safely manage their condition long term.
We also work closely with family members and caregivers to provide education and support for long-term success.
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
Our Comprehensive Lymphedema Treatment Program
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the gold-standard treatment program for lymphedema. It combines several evidence-based approaches designed to reduce swelling, improve function, and support long-term management of the condition.
Depending on your individual needs, your treatment plan may include Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression therapy, therapeutic exercise, skin care education, compression garment training, and other specialized techniques. Not every treatment is necessary for every patient, and your therapist will determine which approaches are most appropriate based on your condition and goals.
May Help With
- Lymphedema
- Cancer-related swelling
- Chronic arm or leg swelling
- Post-surgical swelling
Benefits
- Reduces swelling and heaviness
- Improves mobility and daily function
- Helps prevent skin complications
- Supports long-term swelling management
- Improves quality of life
What To Expect
Following a comprehensive evaluation, your therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. Treatment recommendations may change over time as your condition improves.
Treatment plans are individualized. Not all therapies are necessary for every patient, and treatment recommendations will be based on your evaluation findings, goals, and clinical needs.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, specialized hands-on technique designed to encourage the movement of lymph fluid away from swollen areas and toward healthy drainage pathways.
Benefits
- Reduces swelling
- Relieves feelings of heaviness and tightness
- Improves comfort
- Supports healthy lymphatic function
What To Expect
Your therapist uses light, rhythmic hand movements on the skin. Unlike traditional massage, MLD is gentle and specifically designed to support the lymphatic system.
Compression Therapy
Compression therapy uses specialized bandages, wraps, or garments to help prevent fluid from accumulating in affected areas and maintain improvements achieved during treatment.
Benefits
- Controls swelling
- Improves circulation
- Reduces discomfort
- Helps maintain treatment results
What To Expect
Your therapist may apply compression bandaging or provide guidance on the proper use of compression garments based on your individual needs.
Compression Pump Therapy
Compression Pump Therapy uses an inflatable sleeve connected to a specialized pump that gently applies pressure to help move excess fluid from swollen tissues.
Benefits
- Promotes fluid movement
- Reduces swelling
- Improves comfort
- Complements other lymphedema treatments
What To Expect
A sleeve is placed over the affected arm or leg and inflates and deflates in controlled cycles while you relax comfortably.
Therapeutic Exercise for Lymphedema
Specialized exercises are used to promote lymphatic flow, improve circulation, and maintain strength and mobility.
Benefits
- Encourages healthy fluid movement
- Improves flexibility and mobility
- Increases strength and endurance
- Supports overall function and independence
What To Expect
Your therapist will design an individualized exercise program based on your abilities and treatment goals.
Compression Garment Assessment & Education
Compression garments play an important role in long-term lymphedema management. Proper fit and use are essential for achieving the best results.
Benefits
- Helps maintain swelling reduction
- Supports daily function
- Promotes long-term symptom control
What To Expect
Your therapist will provide education on garment selection, wear schedules, care instructions, and proper application techniques.
Skin Care & Self-Management Training
Healthy skin is essential for individuals with lymphedema. Education and self-management strategies help reduce the risk of complications and support long-term success.
Benefits
- Helps prevent skin irritation and infection
- Supports long-term swelling control
- Promotes independence and confidence
What To Expect
Patients and caregivers receive practical education on skin care, swelling management strategies, exercise, and lifestyle modifications that can help maintain treatment results.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Every patient responds differently depending on the severity and duration of swelling. Some patients notice improvement within a few visits, while others may require ongoing treatment and long-term self-management strategies.
Your therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Signs You May Benefit From Lymphedema Treatment
You may benefit from a lymphedema evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent swelling in an arm or leg
- Feelings of heaviness or tightness
- Difficulty fitting into clothing, shoes, or jewelry
- Skin changes or thickening
- Reduced flexibility or movement
- Swelling following surgery, radiation therapy, or cancer treatment
Ready to Get Started?
If you are experiencing swelling, heaviness, or difficulty with daily activities due to lymphedema, our team can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan in the comfort of your home.
Contact us today to learn how home health lymphedema therapy may help improve your comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
Private Pay Home Health Physical Therapy
We provide personalized one-on-one care without the restrictions often associated with traditional insurance-based services, allowing treatment plans to focus on your individual goals and needs.