Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Lymphedema Program
More than three million Americans suffer the physical
and psychological effects of lymphedema, a condition that can occur when
an insufficient or damaged lymph system fails to drain lymph fluid from
the tissues of the body. Lymphedema can lead to severe swelling and pain
in the extremities.
Approximately 35 to 40 percent of women with breast
cancer will develop lymphedema following axillary node surgery or radiation
therapy. Men are at risk of developing lymphedema in their legs following
surgery for prostate or testicular cancer. Left untreated, the swelling
can become painful and infection can become a serious risk. While no
cure is currently available for lymphedema, there is hope for patients
who take precautions and manage their symptoms.
The Lymphedema Program
at Holy Cross Hospital aims to reduce the swelling and pain associated
with lymphedema and to educate the patient to monitor, maintain, and
improve his or her condition throughout his or her lifetime.
Treatment
for lymphedema may include the following:
- Skin care: The patient
is educated in precautions to protect the skin and avoid infection,
in proper use of skin care products, and an individualized skin care
program
- Manual
lymphatic drainage (MLD): Manual lymphatic drainage is a specific
superficial manual technique that facilitates the opening of collateral
lymphatic pathways.
- Multi-layer bandaging: Bandaging consists
of a technique involving three primary layers of bandages applied
to the affected area to facilitate lymph flow.
- Individualized
exercise program: Exercise programs are tailored to each patient
to enhance lymphatic drainage and also restore strength, flexibility,
endurance, and function.
- Patient
education: Patients are educated about their condition, the goals
and purpose of the treatment regimen, as well as life-long skin care.