Lymphedema Services
The Edema & Wound Care Clinics offers a complete system of services for the management of swelling and for wound care. These services include:- Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), also known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CPT)
- Skin Care
- Bandaging
- Exercises
- Progress Measuring
- Wound Care
- Patient Education
Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) promotes, on the one hand, fluid drainage, via venous capillaries and, on the other hand, the removal of fluid and proteins via the lymph systems. It is a gentle, very specific "massage technique" that activates the lymph vessels and encourages them to carry more Lymph Obligatory Load (LOL) than they normally do, up to 10 times more.Its specific movements also activates anastomosis, which are collateral vessels normally not used. These extra vessels are located between the superficial lymph system and the epifacial compartments housing the skeletal muscles. With its precise movements, specifically designed for lymphedema, MLD stimulates these vessels to carry protein-rich fluids away from the edema site. These newly activated vessels increase the total transport capacity of the lymph system. Thus MLD activates a natural, previously dormant, body back-up system. There are indications for MLD other than lymphedema.
Skin Care
Meticulous care of the skin and nails to keep the incidence of infection down. Low pH, lanolin based topical ointments are helpful in improving skin care.
Bandaging
MLD is followed by a multilayered compression bandaging, using special short-stretch bandages.
Exercises
While bandaged, the patient is guided through a series of remedial exercises designed to increase lymph flow and micro circulation.
Progress Measuring
The patient is measured on a weekly basis to record progress.
Wound Care
The use of Complete Decongestive Therapy in conjunction with standard wound care techniques has proven very successful in closing long standing and non-healing wounds
Patient Education
The management of Lymphedema is a life-long process. At the Edema and Wound Care Clinics, patients are taught living skills that keep the swelling in check and allow them to enjoy their noraml quality of life.