Lymphedema Therapy

Lymphedema is a swelling of a body part (usually an arm or leg) due to an ineffective or damaged lymph drainage system.  Lymphatic fluid is the fluid in your body surrounding and supporting your cells.  The lymphedema system includes vessels and lymph nodes that transport the lymph fluid.

Primary Lymphedema is due to congenital (from birth) or hereditary conditions.  Secondary Lymphedema is more common and can be caused by some cancer treatments, trauma, injury, surgical procedures that remove or damage lymph vessels and lymph nodes, or scarring. Left untreated, Lymphedema can develop into further complications including serious infections, pain and disability.  Lymphedema effects both men and women.

Lymphedema Therapy is provided after referral from a physician and  provides patients with a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment plan to manage their condition.

Columbus Community Hospital’s Lymphedema Program is managed by three of our Occupational Therapists who are Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLT) and includes many specialized services including:

• Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
• Intermittent Compression Therapy
• Multi-Layered Bandaging including home instruction
• Custom Lymphedema Garment Fitting
• Therapeutic Exercises to promote lymph drainage
• Education for patients and families on the condition and prevention methods
• Healthy Steps™-Moving you to better health with the Lebed Method exercise and support group
• CCH Auxiliary funded Lymphedema Garment Financial Aid Program
• Therapists with Membership in the National Lymphedema Network (NLN)
• Patient Advocacy for Lymphedema Awareness, Prevention and Treatment

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our Occupational Therapists certified in Lymphedema Management at 402-562-3333.