Lymphedema , an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the superficial tissues, is a very common and serious condition worldwide. Left untreated is has important pathological and clinical consequences for the patient.
Secondary lymphedema is often caused by surgery, radiation, trauma or infection. The reason for the development of primary lymphedema are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system. In such cases the swelling may appear after simple accidents such as sport injuries which can suddenly overload the transport capacity of the lymphatic system. Today there are millions of patients living in the U.S. suffering from lymphedema (primary or secondary) and its complications. Manual Lymph
Drainage and Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy is the only effective treatment for this condition.

MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE / COMPLETE DECONGESTIVE THERAPY

This non-invasive, painless and very effective therapy for Lymphedema and other related conditions has been used in Europe successfully for decades and is now becoming widely recognized in the United States. The treatment consists of four basic steps:

1. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
MLD is a gentle manual treatment technique which improves the activity of the lymph vessels by mild mechanical stretches on the wall of lymph collectors. MLD re-routes the lymph flow around the blocked areas into more centrally located lymph vessels that eventually drain into the venous system.

2. Compression Therapy
Compression therapy increases the tissue pressure and is applied between treatments in order to prevent reaccumulation of lymph fluid. In Phase I of the treatment compression therapy is applied using short-stretch bandages, in Phase II by custom made garments which the patient has to wear every day.

3. Decongestive Exercises
Performed by the patient wearing the compression bandages or garments as well as respiration therapy aid the lymphokinetic effects of the joint and muscle pumps.

4. Skin Care
Since infections are very common and serious complications of lymphedema, each patient is taught meticulous skin and nail care. Therapy cannot proceed until all infections, bacterial or fungal, are under control.

Lymphedema Patients before and after CDT Treatment

(Before and After photo of actual case histories)

Photos courtesy of ACOLS