BALANCED HEALTH 
Wellness Center

​Lymphedema Therapy 

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• Appropriate for treatment and management of lymphatic disorders, vascular issues, diabetes, as well as prevention and education for those who are at risk (ie. those who have had lymph nodes removed, especially with radiation due to cancer treatment)

• Lymphedema is an irreversible condition, requiring specific care, support and maintenance. It is not your usual swelling, with a different makeup of fluid that is protein rich. The presence of these proteins creates and inflammatory response in the affected tissues which progresses the disease and creates the perfect conditions for bacteria, making those with lymphedema at higher risk of infection (particularly cellulitis). With appropriate intervention early, progression of this condition can be stopped and with proper maintenance allow patients to live full lives. 
   

May Include:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage Treatment (MLD)

• Compression – Bandaging, Garment Recommendations, Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

• Therapeutic Exercise – appropriate exercises for strength, mobility and returning to function

• Skin Care – hygiene, proper care, safe soaps and moisturizers 

• Education – Patients will be taught about potential triggers, self-MLD, safe activities and appropriate exercises for effective management
   

Complete Decongestive Therapy
The Gold Standard of lymphedema therapy, my training with Klose taught me the process of reducing the limb as much as possible prior to fitting for their compression garment. This process is proven to be the most effective at long term limb reduction for patients with lymphedema. It is very involved, with MLD treatments combined with bandaging or wrapping every 1-2 days, for 1.5-3 weeks. This also includes a home exercise program to follow, education on self MLD and proper management of the condition. Once the maximum reduction of the limb has been achieved, you will be fit for a flat knit garnment to wear every day. The garnments act as containers for the limb, preventing an increase in swelling. Ongoing follow ups every 6 months are necessary for proper maintenance of the condition. 

Resources: https://bclymph.org/