Lymphedema is the swelling of one of your body parts. Usually, lymphedema affects your arms or legs and is limited to one limb. However, lymphedema can involve your face, trunk, abdomen or genitals. This condition is the result of an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in your tissues. AdventHealth Zephyrhills designs an outpatient therapy plan to best meet your unique needs. Based on physicians’ recommendations, we offer lymphedema patients a two-part treatment plan that’s proven to have the best results and is also the least invasive.
Treatment - Part One
At AdventHealth Zephyrhills, a licensed Occupational or Physical Therapist will guide you through what’s called Complete Decongestive Therapy. You’ll attend up to five therapy sessions weekly for several weeks, or until your swelling is reduced to its lowest possible level. You’ll then be fitted with a graduated compression garment. Here’s what you can expect during the first treatment stage:
Meticulous skin care and learning how to do this yourself
Manual lymphatic drainage
Bandaging/graduated compression therapy
Therapeutic exercises
Treatment - Part Two
You’ll now play a bigger role in your self-care. Your therapist will work with you to ensure that you understand how to properly do all of the things outlined in the first treatment phase. This is an important part of the ongoing care you’ll do regularly to manage your lymphedema.