Lymphedema Treatment
Lymphedema refers to the swelling of tissue just under your skin caused by an accumulation of fluid that is typically drained through your body's lymphatic system. Any disruption to your lymphatic system that may block the drainage of fluid can cause lymphedema. Swelling commonly happens in the arms or legs but may affect other parts of the body as well. The swelling from lymphedema causes discomfort and may become severe, impacting your ability to move the affected limb and increasing the risk of skin infections or leading to breakdown of your skin.
Lymphedema may be present at birth or may be caused by venous insufficiency, cancer treatments that remove or damage lymph nodes, trauma, infection from surgery, radiation treatment, inflammation or scarring or lipedema.
Lymphedema is considered a chronic condition, but early treatment and management of the condition can help prevent lymphedema from getting worse.
Flowers Hospital's rehabilitation services department offers specialized treatment for lymphedema by certified lymphedema therapists who are graduates of approved lymphedema educational programs. Therapists use complete decongestive therapy (CDT) to treat lymphedema. CDT is a non-invasive and highly effective treatment that promotes limb volume reduction along with appropriate home management implementation and education.
Mastectomy Program
Lymphedema is often associated with breast cancer treatments since the surgical removal of lymph nodes and the use of radiation therapy are common treatments to prevent breast cancer from spreading. Our mastectomy program gives patients a dedicated approach to mastectomy and lymphedema care and education from a team of nurses and certified lymphedema therapists.
After surgery, patients meet with a registered nurse to learn about post-operative care, such as care for incisions and drains. Nurses also provide uninterrupted time to discuss a patient's discharge instructions or education and address any questions a patient may have before leaving the hospital.
Patients also meet with an occupational and certified lymphedema therapist to learn about movement guidelines and restrictions during recovery, as well as exercises to help prevent loss of motion in a patient's arms. Additionally, the therapist provides the patient with detailed lymphedema education to help decrease the likelihood of further complications after surgery.
To learn more about lymphedema treatment or the mastectomy program at Flowers Hospital, call the rehab services department at (334) 615-8440.
A physician referral is required to schedule an appointment with a certified lymphedema therapist. Consult your physician if you feel you have symptoms of lymphedema for further evaluation.