LE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Information is courtesy of: Lymphedema People http://www.lymphedemapeople.com TREATMENT OPTIONS In decades past there was very little that could be done about lymphedema. The most commonly used therapy in the 1960's was the compression machine. A boot or arm sleeve was placed over the affected limb and it was "squeezed" by use of air pressure. A patient was then fitted with a type of heavy strength hose or stocking. That treatment has largely gone out of favor for two reasons. First, it wasn't that effective and secondly more serious damage was done to good lymphatics by the continual pressure. Another "treatment" was surgical. Debulking surgeries were performed and the fluid filled tissue was removed. Another surgery tried in the 1970s was called the Thompson's Procedure. After debulking, a flap of skin was sewn into the muscle supposedly to act as a "wick" to draw fluids into the deeper lymphatics. I had three of these 9 hours surgeries and they were not successful. So these surgeries have also gone by the wayside. Much progress has been made in the last decade in treating lymphedema. Today a new therapy is being used called decongestive therapy. --------------------------------------------------------------------- TWO BASIC TYPES OF THERAPY FOR LYMPHDEMA Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): is a unique, therapeutic method of stimulating the movement of fluids in the tissues. The gentle, rhythmic, pumping, massage movements follow the direction of lymph flow and produce rapid results. Comprehensive Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is used primarily in the treatment of lymphedema and venous insufficiency edema. It is a combination of MLD, bandaging exercises and skin care. CDT may also involve breathing exercises, compressive garments and dietary measures. A frequent indication for CDT is lymphedema caused by irradiation or surgery due to cancer. It can relieve edema, fibrosis and the accompanying pain and discomfort --------------------------------------------------------------------- TREATMENT FOR LYMPHEDEMA Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy, (CDP) or Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) ---------------- How Can Lymphedema Be Treated? http://www.lymphoedema.org.au/treatmnt.htm ---------------- Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) http://www.uklymph.com/tr_complex_decongestive_therapy.php ---------------- Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy http://physicaltherapy.about.com/library/weekly/aa093001b.htm --------------------------------------------------------------------- Manual Lymphatic Drainage This treatment is a gentle light touch massage. This prevents damage to the tissues. It promotes lymph flow through the collateral (superficial) lymph vessels to channel the lymph into the abdominal area ( the "watershed") and into normal functioning lymphatic vessels and nodes. These collateral lymph vessels are usually working normally and the problem lies in the deeper vessels which were damaged and scarred. Bandaging The therapist places compression bandaging around the limb. Often foam chip pads are placed under the bandaging to increase pressure on fibrotic area to break down scar tissue. These bandages stay on 24 hours a day throughout the treatment period. They come off only to shower, do skin care, assess the swelling reduction and to do the MLD. Skin Care Use a soap with a low pH., unscented and not antibacterial soaps. A good liquid soap is Cetaphil. The skin must be moisturized after bathing. Use a lotion like Eucerin or Nivea. If there are any irritations use an antibacterial cream. Always dry the area very well,and gently, after washing. Exercises An individualized exercise program will be given by the therapist to each patient. They will improve muscular contractions and joint mobility.There will also be strengthening exercises for the limb that will reduce muscle atrophy. Muscular contractions along with the low-stretch bandages provide constant counter pressure to keep the lymph fluid moving. -------------------------------------------------------------------- MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE Dr Vodder's Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is an advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a range of specialised and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the skin in the direction of lymph flow. This stimulates the lymphatic vessels which carry substances vital to the defence of the body and removes waste products. The first visit will include a consultation and the therapist will outline the number and frequency of sessions. Each session will last approximately one hour. Where appropriate the therapist will work in conjunction with your medical practitioner. The History Of Manual Lymphatic Drainage [MLD] During the early 1930's Dr Emil Vodder created a unique range of movements which brought relief from chronic conditions such as sinus congestion and catarrh. Since Vodder's pioneering work, Manual Lymphatic Drainage has spread world-wide and has become a popular treatment in many European hospitals and clinics. MLD is now beginning to gain acceptance in the U.K. as a component in the treatment and control of lymphoedema. The Benefits Of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Manual Lymphatic Drainage: is both preventative and remedial and can enhance your well-being is deeply relaxing promotes the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains and lessens the pain can improve many chronic conditions: sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis,scleroderma, acne and other skin conditions. may strengthen the immune system relieves fluid congestion: swollen ankles, tired puffy eyes and swollen legs due to pregnancy is an effective component of the treatment and control of lymphoedema and assists in conditions arising from venous insufficiency promotes healing of wounds and burns and improves the appearance of old scars minimises or reduces stretch marks ........................ Links - Manual Lymphatic Drainage ------------------------- Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy http://www.mfbewley.org.uk/mld.htm -------------------------- Dr Vodder's Manual Lymphatic Drainage http://www.summertownclinic.co.uk/therapies/mld.htm -------------------------- Manual Lymphatic Drainage: The Benefits http://www.summertownclinic.co.uk/therapies/mldben.htm ******************************************************************* ARTICLE: Traditional Massage Therapy in the Treatment and Management of Lymphedema http://www.massagetoday.com/archives/2002/06/03.html